International journal of audiology
-
A computational model of the electrically evoked compound action potential (ECAP) has been developed. In addition to being a useful research tool, it serves as an excellent introduction to the basic biophysics of ECAP recording techniques. ECAPs are modeled as a sum of single-fiber action potentials (SFAPs) in response to an electrical stimulus. ⋯ The factors that alter SFAP and ECAP morphology and latency are discussed, as are the mechanisms of stimulus artefact and the advantages and limitations of different artefact-suppression techniques. The assumptions of the model are presented, as are potential ways of improving the physiologic data available from clinical recordings. Potential applications of this technology in the investigation of the biophysical mechanisms of the implanted cochlea are suggested.