The 3-channel Lissajous' trajectory of the auditory brain-stem response. IX. Theoretical aspects

Abstract

The 3-channel Lissajous' trajectory (3-CLT) provides a method of detecting more information on the neural generators which contribute to the ABR (auditory brain-stem response) than does a single-channel recording. Analysis of this information requires an 'inverse' solution (prediction of the mean generator characteristics from the surface potentials assuming a uniform spherical volume conductor). The inverse solution can yield one of a series of hypothetical dipoles, some of which bear a reasonably close correspondence to neural generator properties. In theory and practice the 3-CLT distinguishes between straight and curved axons and may provide sufficient information to delineate the spatial orientation of some curved axons. The measures derivable from this model and its analysis are described. Terminology utilized is defined. © 1987.