Electrical neurological stimulation systems: a review of contemporary methodology

An analysis of the essentials of both external and implantable neurologic stimulation devices is presented. Specific system requirements have been extracted from clinical experience with neurologic hardware for pain inhibition. Application of these devices includes dorsal column stimulation, transcutaneous nerve stimulation and peripheral nerve stimulation. The electrode, an essential component of any neuro-stimulation system, is examined critically, with particular attention to unanswered questions regarding the electrode tissue interface.