Predicted EIT current densities in the brain using a 3D anatomically realistic model of the head

Abstract

Current density distributions have been calculated using a high resolution model of the human head on application of low direct currents. The 3D internal electric fields and current densities have been calculated for electrode pair combinations for dc current levels from 1 to 10 mA. For current levels at 1 mA, the results show maximum electric fields of approximately 1.5 V/m and current densities less than 500 mA/m2 for the outermost regions of the brain. To our knowledge, this is the first study to describe current distributions in the brain using a 3D anatomically realistic model of the head in a manner which is pertinent to Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT). © Springer-Verlag 2007.