Measurement of block thresholds in kiloHertz frequency alternating current peripheral nerve block.

BACKGROUND: Kilohertz frequency alternating currents (KHFAC) produce rapid nerve conduction block of mammalian peripheral nerve and have potential clinical applications in reducing peripheral nerve hyperactivity. The experimental investigation of KHFAC nerve block requires a robust output measure and this has proven to be the block threshold (BT), the lowest current or voltage at which the axons of interest are completely blocked. All significant literature in KHFAC nerve block, both simulations and experimental, were reviewed to determine the block threshold method that was used. The two common methods used are the High-Low method experimentally and the Binary search method for simulations.

NEW METHOD: Four methods to measure the block threshold (High-Low, High-Low-High, Binary and Random) at three frequencies (10, 20 and 30 kHz) were compared through randomized repeated experiments in the in-vivo rodent sciatic nerve-gastrocnemius model.

RESULTS: The literature review showed that more than 50% of publications did not measure the block threshold. The experimental results showed no statistical difference in the BT value between the four methods.

COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHOD(S): However, there were differences in the number of significant onset responses, depending on the method. The run time for the BT determination was the shortest for the High-Low method.

CONCLUSIONS: It is recommended that all research in electrical nerve block, including KHFAC, should include measurement of the BT. The High-Low method is recommended for most experimental situations but the Binary method could also be a viable option, especially where onset responses are minimal.