Abstract:
Whiplash injuries are common yet enigmatic to substantiate clinically.
Trigeminal somatosensory evoked potentials (TSEPs) were posited as an
indicator of trigeminal nerve conduction damage resulting from whiplash.
Alternating polarity square-wave current stimuli were applied transcutaneously
in the facial region. 379 recorded pilot trials from 27 participants (8 male and
19 female) were utilized to develop a non-invasive recording capability for
TSEPs. Stimulus intensity and artifact, cortical recording sites, stimulation
electrode design and placement were explored. Statistically significant
differences in amplitude of TSEP waveform components at 13, 19 and 27 ms
between uninjured and whiplashed participants were noted. Increased
stimulus intensity in whiplashed participants was observed to increase TSEP
amplitude. The present methodology and hardware are discussed and
directions for future advancement of the current process are outlined.
