Numerical Analysis of Eddy Current Distribution in Submental Region Induced by Magnetic Stimulation for Treating Dysphagia

Induced contraction of the suprahyoid muscles via magnetic stimulation is considered to be effective for the rehabilitation of dysphagia. In our previous study, a magnetic stimulation coil with a U-shaped core for stimulating the suprahyoid muscles was developed based on the results of numerical analysis using a simplified human head model. It was confirmed that magnetic stimulation by the coil causes large contraction of the muscles. However, the human head has a complex structure that includes bone structures through which current cannot easily pass. To accurately predict the current density distribution induced by magnetic stimulation, a model that accurately describes the human head is required for numerical analysis. Therefore, in this study, numerical analysis using the finite element method with a human head model that includes the bone structure obtained from computed tomography scans was performed. The results for the model with bone structure show that the coil with a U-shaped core can stimulate the motor points of the suprahyoid muscles in the middle of the submental region. When compared with the current density observed in a model without the bone structure, that in the model with the bone structure was reduced by 29% at a point 20 mm below the mandibular surface. It is thus necessary to perform a numerical analysis using a model with the bone structure to obtain accurate analysis results.