Name: updated technique for reliable, easy, and tolerated transcranial electrical stimulation including transcranial direct current stimulation
Uploaded: 2020-01-03T12:00:00.000+00:00
Duration: 10 min 11 s
Description: Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Updated Technique for Reliable, Easy, and Tolerated Transcranial Electrical Stimulation Including Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation at JoVE.com

This work was supported by the NIH (grants 1R01NS101362-01, 1R01MH111896-01, 1R01NS095123-01, 1R01MH109289-01, 1K01AG050707).

The City College of New York, CUNY Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved this protocol.
1. Materials
<ol>
	<li>Prior to the tDCS session, make sure that all necessary materials are available. While some materials will depend on the specific protocol of the study/treatment, there are basic items that are general across modern tDCS application as shown here (Table 1, Figure 3).
	<ol>
		<li>Prepare a tDCS device: A battery-driven tDCS device that functions as a constant current stimulator with a maximum output in the milliamp range. A tES device with a tDCS setting may be used (e.g., Soterix Medical 1x1 tES device).</li>
		<li>Prepare single-use snap sponge electrodes (e.g., Soterix Medical 5x5 cm snap electrodes).</li>
		<li>Prepare saline solution and applicator, to be used if the electrode becomes dehydrated during the session. Since pre-assembled electrodes are already soaked with a volume of saline solution pre-determined to be sufficient, a minimal amount of saline, if any, might be added. Be careful not to oversoak the sponge and avoid leakage and dripping by gradually and carefully adding saline only if needed.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Prepare fixed-position headgear. Here, two models of snap-headgear are used (M1-SO and bifrontal).</li>
	<li>Prepare connecting cables. The snap-headgear already includes the necessary cables, which one end configured to connect to the stimulation (male banana) and the other end configured to accept the snap pad (female snap). This may differ according to the fixed-position headgear chosen.</li>
	<li>Prepare relevant forms (e.g. consent form, pre- and post-questionnaires, screening forms, data collection forms) and other intervention-specific materials as applicable.</li>
</ol>
2. Relevant forms
<ol>
	<li>When the subject arrives, first greet the subject, and then have him or her sit comfortably in an upright position in a chair.</li>
	<li>For research trials, before the study, have the subject give consent to participate in the study. The consent form includes details about the research protocol, risks, and benefits of the study. This form is intended to disclose appropriate information to subjects so that they may make a voluntary choice to accept or refuse treatment. It originates from legal and ethical rights. A subject must be aware of what happens to his or her body, and the ethical responsibilities of a researcher to get the participant involved in his or her physical and mental well-being.</li>
	<li>For research trials, collect a written consent from the participants before any study procedures are performed. Show the consent form to the subject. An experiment can only continue if the subject chooses to sign the consent form.</li>
	<li>Screen the subject according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria outlined in the study&#39;s protocol.</li>
	<li>If no contraindications are present and the subject still agrees to participate, ask subject to fill out any other necessary forms (i.e., demographics form, relevant pre-questionnaires, etc.)</li>
	<li>If subject fully understands and consents to the procedure to follow and has filled out the necessary forms, go on to the next step.</li>
</ol>
3. Measurements
<ol>
	<li>Begin setup by first measuring the subject&#39;s head circumference to determine the appropriate size of headgear to be used. To measure the subject&#39;s head circumference, start from the most prominent part of the forehead around the widest part of the back of the head, going over the hair and above the ears. Fixed-position head bands require significantly less measurements than the conventional methods of electrode placement for tDCS15 and moreover only require measurement at the first visit when the head-gear is selected. 
	NOTE: Different headgears may vary in the range of sizes offered as well as in the circumference measurements corresponding to each size. For the headgear used in this demonstration, the sizes available are small (52&#8211;55.5 cm), medium (55.5&#8211;58.5 cm), large (58.5&#8211;62 cm), and extra-large (62&#8211;65 cm).</li>
	<li>With the subject sitting comfortably in a chair, proceed to measure the head circumference to determine the appropriate size of the headgear.</li>
	<li>Consult the specific headgear manual to select the appropriate headgear size (e.g., small, medium, large) based on the desired electrode montage and the subject&#39;s head circumference. For most electrode montages, there may be different sized of headgear depending on the subject head size.</li>
</ol>
4. Skin preparation
<ol>
	<li>Inspect the skin where the electrode is expected to be placed. In this protocol, place electrodes following either the M1-SO or the bifrontal montage. If any lesions are observed, do not administer tDCS.</li>
	<li>Ensure the area is free of signs of lotion, dirt, etc.</li>
	<li>In traditional approaches where re-usable electrodes are used, inspect the rubber inserts and sponges for wear at every session. Here, in modern approach with single-use electrodes, this step is not strictly required. None the less, inspect new electrodes for integrity and saturation.</li>
</ol>
5. Electrode placement
<ol>
	<li>Remove two pre-saturated 5 cm x 5 cm snap electrodes from their packets.</li>
	<li>Snap the single-use snap electrodes onto the snap-headgear according to the fixed locations on the headgear. These locations are montage-specific and based on the headgear selected. The montage used is study-specific.</li>
	<li>Optionally, gently expose the scalp by parting the subject&#39;s hair with fingers to assure that the saline seeps through the hair into the scalp, enhancing contact quality between the electrode and the scalp.</li>
	<li>Making sure that the sponge is secured to the strap, position the headgear on the subject&#39;s head.
	<ol>
		<li>In the M1SO snap-headgear montage with &#34;anodal&#34; stimulation of M1, position the anode near the motor cortex and the cathode over the supraorbital area. To accurately position the electrodes onto their designated scalp positions, first position the nasion-representing ring of the strap, located at the bottom portion of the strap, over the nasion. The nasion is the point anterior to the brain, located between the forehead and the nose. Adjust the top portion of the strap so that it is perpendicular to the bottom portion of the strap. The top portion of the strap is intended to sit approximately above the ear, symmetrically positioned on both sides of the head. Then, position the posterior elastic portion of the strap over the inion. The anode/cathode polarity may be reversed depending in application.</li>
		<li>In the bifrontal (F3/F4) snap-headgear montage with &#34;anodal&#34; stimulation of the left DLPFC, position the anode near the left dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex and the cathode near the right dorsal lateral pre-frontal cortex. The anode/cathode polarity may be reversed depending in application.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>In some subjects with long hair, ask the subject to tie their hair back or secure the hair tightly while the headgear is being placed. This will allow for a more consistent electrode setup and decrease the risk of discomfort caused by accidental tugging of the subject&#39;s hair. 
	NOTE: Long hair may also present a barrier for fluid from the electrode to saturate to the scalp, and can be gently parted under the electrode.</li>
	<li>Ensure that the headgear is snug, but not uncomfortably tight. Select the correct size of headgear that does not cause discomfort to the subject while ensuring the sponge electrodes are held reliably to the scalp.</li>
	<li>Connect the black cable (cathode) and red cable (anode) to the tES device. Consult the operating manual for the stimulator in order to establish whether the stimulator is powered on before or after connecting positioned electrodes to the stimulator.
	<ol>
		<li>While the stimulator is active, ensure that the electrodes are connected when current flow has been initiated.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>For the snap-headgear, connect the black cathode cable into the corresponding input black driver of the tDCS device and repeat this for the red anode cable for its respective location on the tDCS device. Ensure the connection polarity is correct as the effects of tDCS are polarity specific. 
	NOTE: When using a tDCS device, the anode electrode is the positive terminal where positive current enters the body, and the cathode electrode is negative terminal where positive current exits the body. When using a tACS device, anode and cathode are not considered as positive or negative, as both terminals will act anode and cathode alternatively. Conventionally, red indicates the anode electrode, and black or blue indicates the cathode electrode (ensure that the same applies for the device being used).</li>
</ol>
6. Start tDCS
<ol>
	<li>Before initiating the tDCS session, make sure that the subject is comfortable and awake.</li>
	<li>Confirm that the device is turned on, the cables are properly connected, and the headgear and electrode properly situated. The impedance meter is a secondary method to ensure good contact, but it does not replace the need to make sure all protocol steps are adhered to.</li>
	<li>Check the impedance meter for contact quality. The device used in this demonstration displays impedance information in real time. This may be device-specific, so become familiar with the impedance meter on the device used.
	<ol>
		<li>If the subject&#39;s overall contact quality is abnormally low, this may indicate improper electrode setup, resulting in high impedance. If the contact quality continues to be low after adjusting the headgear and/or judiciously supplementing saline, press &#34;pre-stim tickle&#34; (if available on the device being used) to achieve a better contact quality.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Check if the device has enough battery. Devices designed for tDCS trials have a readily visible low-battery warning - for the device used here directly above the on/off switch there is a low-battery alert indicator.</li>
	<li>Program the tDCS session duration, intensity or (if applicable to device being used) sham condition setting (for studies with operatory blinding regarding the sham vs real tDCS condition, the setting will be programmed by independent personnel or pre-coded into the device28). Note that some stimulators are recommended to be switched on before the contact between the electrodes and the skin is made.
	<ol>
		<li>If the tDCS session is being administered using a tES device, select the tDCS waveform setting.</li>
		<li>When applying a tES waveform other than tDCS, such as tACS or tPCS, make sure that the device is properly programmed including waveform and frequency.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Initiate the tDCS by pressing the Start button. In order to reduce any adverse effects, devices include automatic current ramp up at the initiation of stimulation, along with an automatic ramp down at the end. At the beginning of stimulation, subjects will often perceive an itching and/or tingling sensation underneath the electrodes, which then fades out in most cases.</li>
	<li>As some subjects may experience discomfort during the first few minutes of tDCS, moderately decrease the current by using the Relax knob temporarily as the subject adjusts. Then, gradually increase the current back up to the desired level. This feature may depend on the device being used and protocol.
	<ol>
		<li>Ensure that the subject does not touch the device, headgear, and/or electrodes during the stimulation session. Ensure that any required adjustments to these are handled by the operator only.</li>
		<li>For some subjects, sudden changes in current intensity may produce dizziness or vertigo as well as retinal phosphines if the current is suddenly increased or decreased. To avoid these adverse sensations, make sure to allow a ramp-up and ramp-down time for the stimulation. As previously mentioned, tDCS devices offer an automatic ramp-up/down period. Check the device for specific details.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Ensure that the subject remains comfortable and avoids unnecessary movement.</li>
	<li>If the electrodes become dehydrated, as may be indicated by a decrease in contact quality, use a syringe to gradually add a measured amount of saline to the electrodes. There may be experimental plans where tDCS electrodes are positioned on the head well in advance of stimulation such that when stimulation is scheduled to start the electrodes have been on the head for some time and may become dehydrated. 
	NOTE: Electrodes designed for tDCS, such as snap electrodes have been developed by the manufacturer to maintain saturation during the course of a tDCS session (e.g., tens of minutes). However, certain environments (such as exceptionally dry atmosphere of air conditioning) may accelerated electrode dehydration. Snap electrodes are pre-saturated, so the need for additional saline is minimized.
	<ol>
		<li>To avoid saline drip due to gravity, ensure graded application to the top edge of the sponges.</li>
		<li>To minimize dehydration, avoid an extensive long time between tDCS setup and start of tDCS or if unavoidable (a long task that must be conducted after headgear application but before tDCS application), add checks to confirm sponge saturation and impedance.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Avoid touching the electrodes during stimulation. If addition of saline does not improve the contact quality, confirm skin sensation from the subject. Every trial and device will have explicitly specific criteria for any headgear or electrode adjustment steps before or during tDCS including when stimulation is aborted based on impedance and/or subject sensation.</li>
	<li>At the end of the stimulation session, the device will ramp down from the treatment intensity to 0 mA. Do not allow subject to remove headgear themselves. Do not remove headgear before the device indicates stimulation is complete with a current of zero. As the current ramps down, some subjects may report increased sensations such as tingling. These minor sensations stop after the current intensity returns to zero.</li>
	<li>When the device has finished ramping down and the current is zero, turn off the device.</li>
</ol>
7. After the procedure
<ol>
	<li>Remove headgear loaded with the electrodes from subject&#39;s scalp.</li>
	<li>Disconnect the snap electrodes from the strap. Dispose of the snap electrodes (as they are single use).</li>
	<li>Inspect the skin under the electrodes. Mild to moderate redness is expected during tDCS5,11,29, most of it simply from pressure30.</li>
	<li>Administer a questionnaire of adverse events to assess possible side-effects. Adverse event questionnaires can include any adverse effects typically associated with tDCS, such as tingling, itching and burning sensations, headache and discomfort. Examples for such a questionnaire can be found in Brunoni et al. (2011)31.</li>
	<li>Though tDCS is consider safe when following standard protocols5, perform an adverse-event monitoring procedure during the development of any study&#39;s protocol. Especially in some patient populations, serious adverse event may occur unrelated to tDCS. Adverse-event monitoring procedures include a course of action to be followed if the subject reports unexpected or serious side-effects during or after the session. Follow the adverse-event monitoring procedures closely and carefully.</li>
</ol>

The City University of New York holds patents on brain stimulation, on which Marom Bikson is an inventor. Marom Bikson is a co-founder of Soterix Medical Inc.

Since 2000, there has been an exponential increase in the rate (number of published trials) and breadth (range of applications and indications) for tDCS5,11,33. The modern tDCS protocols illustrated here potentially further supports adoption in human trials, especially of increasing size and sites (e.g., pivotal trials), and ultimately in treatment9 as these modern tDCS techniques are simple and normalize critical setup steps. Since electrode preparation and position determine tDCS dose12, methods to ensure replicable setup underpin reproducible trials. The modern technique described here is expected to be advantageous across inclusion criterion but may provide special benefit in group where conventional techniques prove challenging as a result of scalp/hair conditions, behavior, or in high-throughout (multi-center trials) and remote settings34,35. The modern technique, by providing a more secure fixation of the electrodes (e.g. compared to ad hoc elastic straps in the conventional technique) would enhance combination with adjunct behavioral therapies such as mirror therapy36,37,38, visual imagery and virtual reality39,40,41, or physical therapy34,42,43,44,45.
tDCS is considered a safe and convenient form of noninvasive brain stimulation5,11. Nonetheless, it is still important to ensure that the stimulation is conducted following best practices14. All tDCS operators are trained and certified. A detailed study-specific protocol is created outlining any additional materials necessary, the electrode montage used, any tasks if applicable, important safety procedure to be followed before, during, and after the stimulation, as well as study-specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Some exclusion criteria may include metallic head and/or neck tattoos, metallic implants in head and/or neck, among others &#8211; but these are not absolute (e.g. tES in subjects with epilepsy, implant, and acute skull defects)4. Many aspects of a tDCS study protocols, such as some materials, electrode placement, duration, among other procedures, are specific to the study design. When modifying the protocol to fit study-specific needs, ensure that those modifications are acceptable to both subject and researcher5,11.
A modern tDCS method is described in this guide. This contemporary tDCS application technique is significantly simpler than the conventional method, and so is both faster and less prone to error.

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique capable of modulating cortical excitability1,2. During tDCS, a constant low intensity current, typically 1-2 milliamperes (mA), flows from an anode electrode to a cathode electrode generating a weak electric field across the cortex3,4. Conventional tDCS protocols are considered tolerated and safe5. The effects of one session of tDCS can last several minutes after session completion6 with repeated sessions producing longer lasting changes in brain function7,8. The tolerability profile and the potential to produce either acute or long-lasting changes makes tDCS a candidate for a variety of interventions and treatments9,10,11. While questions remain about the optimal dose of tDCS12, including the role of intensity13, polarity7 and focality3, the importance of controlling electrode placement for neuromodulation reproducibility is accepted. Moreover, electrode preparation also underpins tolerability and related concerns such as blinding-reliability14. While tDCS has practical advantages over other brain stimulation methods, due to its cost-effectiveness, portability, ease of use, and tolerability; nonetheless, the apparent simplicity and adaptability of the technique does not excuse poor electrode preparation and placement technique14.
Indeed, the apparent simplicity of tDCS has, in some cases, encouraged insufficient attention to proper equipment, supplies, and operator training14. First, reliable electrode placement is required for reproducibility. The positioning of tDCS electrodes on the scalp typically follows the 10-20 system, which is a method used for the placement and application of electroencephalography (EEG) electrodes. In the conventional tDCS method, this involves tape measurement to establish electrode location, with several measurements at every session15,16,17. A marker is used to label scalp positions. There is potential for this process to result in electrode placement variability (e.g., how reliably various operators position measuring tape), especially under high throughput conditions &#8211; though rigorous operator training and certification can mitigate variability. In the conventional tDCS method, the electrodes are then manually pressed onto the measured coordinate and rubber-straps applied in an ad hoc manner18 (e.g., the tightness of bands may not be consistent across operators affecting ejection of fluid from sponges, subject tolerability, and even drift in electrode position19,20). As with electrode position, this variability can be mitigated with explicit protocols and training, though such detail is often not described in published reports. In special circumstances when the pad electrode is separated from the scalp by cream/gel without the use of sponge21, caution is required to prevent direct electrode-skin contact leading invariably to a burn14. An alternative less common method for tDCS uses an elastic cap22,23, which depends on subject specific head deformation not distorting electrode position, and risks saline spread and bridging under the cap (not visible to the operator). In comparison to conventional rubber-band or elastic-cap based techniques, the modern tDCS technique presented here makes the critical electrode preparation and positioning steps more robust and reliable.
Another key procedure in tDCS is the assembly of the electrodes. Conventional tDCS electrodes are multi-part. These separate parts, which have to be assembled carefully by the operator, consist of metal or conductive-rubber electrodes, which the operator encloses in a perforated sponge pocket and saturates with saline solution15. While not complex, the process of electrode assembly requires training and vigilance at each session, as a small error such as metal/rubber protruding from the sponge and contacting the subject or saline fluid volume can lead to skin injury14. The modern tDCS technique overcomes these concerns by use of pre-assembled pre-saturated electrodes/sponges that moreover include a reliable snap connector to the headgear. Pre-assembled and pre-saturated electrodes are single use, mitigating issues of reproducibility and risks of contamination with reused sponges14,20.
The purpose of this article is to demonstrate modern setup procedures for the administration of tDCS and related transcranial electrical stimulation techniques, such as transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), transcranial ransom noise stimulation (tRNS)24, and transcranial pulsed current stimulation (tPCS) and its variants25. This guide demonstrates tDCS using commonly applied montages intended for motor cortex26 and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) stimulation27. The modern tDCS technique explained here avoids tape measurement for determining electrode placement, cumbersome carbon-rubber electrode insertion, tedious procedure of wetting electrode sponges, and use of rubber bands or elastic caps as headgear. This process is optimized by using a specialized fixed-position headgear and a pre-saturated snap connector electrode. The fixed-position headgear consists of straps deigned to automatically place tDCS electrodes at standard 10-10 EEG19. The pre-determined electrode location provided by these straps removes the need for extensive measuring and calculations, thus increasing reproducibility, time-effectiveness and subject manipulation. Only a one-time fitting measurement is needed (used to determine the correct strap size to be used) at the first visit. Single use pre-assembled sponge electrodes are provided pre-soaked in the optimized volume of saline and with the rubber electrode inserted and fixed, minimizing the risk of direct contact between the rubber/metal and the skin, as well as over/under-soaking. Using fixed-position headgear and pre-assembled sponge electrodes (Figure 1) not only significantly reduces the possibility for electrode misplacement due to measurement error, but also make administering tDCS easier and more time-effective. For each montage, there is a specific headgear. This article will use two montages as examples. The first montage is the M1-SO in which the anode is placed over the region corresponding to primary motor cortex (M1) and the cathode is placed over the contralateral supra-orbital (SO) region (Figure 2A). The second montage is the bifrontal montage, in which the anode is placed over the right and the cathode is placed over the left DLPFC (F3/F4, Figure 2C). The methods outlined here are not limited to the aforementioned montages, and can be adapted to the other configurations, significantly reducing the possibility for electrode misplacement due to measurement error, while also making the application of tDCS and related tES techniques more efficient. Modern headgears described here are electrode montage specific (e.g., M1-SO, F3/F4) and different headgear would be used for separate electrode montages. Even though, the modern technique reduces the number of steps and makes the administration of tES technique efficient, the new approach still requires training to operate the stimulator.

<table><tbody><tr><td>1x1 transcranial electrical stimulation</td><td>Soterix Medical Inc.</td><td>2001tE</td><td>The tDCS setting was used on the tES device</td></tr><tr><td>Dlpfc-1 headgear with cables</td><td>Soterix Medical Inc.</td><td>SNAPstrap 1300-ESOLE-S-M</td><td>Dlpfc-1 (size: adult - medium)</td></tr><tr><td>M1-SO headgear with cables</td><td>Soterix Medical Inc.</td><td>SNAPstrap 1300-ESM-S-M</td><td>M1-SO (size: adult - medium)</td></tr><tr><td>Saline solution</td><td>Soterix Medical Inc.</td><td>1300S_5</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Snap sponge electrodes 5x5 cm</td><td>Soterix Medical Inc.</td><td>SNAPpad 1300-5x5S</td><td>Single-use only</td></tr><tr><td>Syringe</td><td>Soterix Medical Inc.</td><td>1300SR_5</td><td>Syringe for saline application</td></tr></tbody></table>

updated technique for reliable, easy, and tolerated transcranial electrical stimulation including transcranial direct current stimulation

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive method of neuromodulation using low-intensity direct electrical currents. This method of brain stimulation presents several potential advantages compared to other techniques, as it is noninvasive, cost-effective, broadly deployable, and well-tolerated provided proper equipment and protocols are administered. Even though tDCS is apparently simple to perform, correct administration of the tDCS session, especially the electrode positioning and preparation, is vital for ensuring reproducibility and tolerability. The electrode positioning and preparation steps are traditionally also the most time consuming and error-prone. To address these challenges, modern tDCS techniques, using fixed-position headgear and pre-assembled sponge electrodes, reduce complexity and setup time while also ensuring that the electrodes are consistently placed as intended. These modern tDCS methods present advantages for research, clinic, and remote-supervised (at home) settings. This article provides a comprehensive step-by-step guide for administering a tDCS session using fixed-position headgear and pre-assembled sponge electrodes. This guide demonstrates tDCS using commonly applied montages intended for motor cortex and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) stimulation. As described, selection of the head size and montage-specific headgear automates electrode positioning. Fully assembled pre-saturated snap-electrodes are simply affixed to the set position snap-connectors on the headgear. The modern tDCS method is shown to reduce setup time and reduce errors for both novice and expert operators. The methods outlined in this article can be adapted to different applications of tDCS as well as other forms of transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) such as transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) and transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS). However, since tES is application specific, as appropriate, any methods recipe is customized to accommodate subject, indication, environment, and outcome specific features.

The modern tDCS methods described in the guide is expected to simplify tDCS setup and so reduce preparation time while increasing reliability. Setup times were measured using the traditional and modern tDCS methods. Separate consideration was given for experts vs. novices for each method (n=8). Each novice or expert operator conducted the setup five times. For tDCS traditional method both experts and novices reviewed preparation instructions15, as well as additional instructions before the first setup trials. For the modern tDCS method, both experts and novices reviewed an earlier version this guide. In all cases, operators were allowed to ask observers questions and for instructions as needed, which would be factored into setup time. Observers did not otherwise provide feedback. Reliability was scored by the observer after each trial on a 1-3 scale as: (1) Poor setup with substantial error in electrode placement (&#62;5 cm) and/or significant uneven electrode contact with skin (&#62;50% of sponge surface not contacting skin), and/or other significant errors; (2) Moderate or small error in electrode placement (3-5 cm) and/or moderate uneven electrode contact with skin (30-50% of sponge surface not contacting skin), and/or other minor errors; (3) No evident error in electrode placement or significant uneven electrode contact with skin, and no other significant errors.
Traditional Method 
The traditional method requires measurements for the M1-SO position before each application using the measurement protocol based the 10&#8211;20 EEG system. Sponges needed to be assembled and saturated. The novice operators were given an instruction manual with directions for the measurement of the 10&#8211;20 EEG system, which they could read before the trial. This instruction manual was kept during the trials for reference. Both expert and novice completed 5 setup trials including the required head-measurements at every trial. The individual times taken for each setup trial were recorded (Figure 4). The average setup time taken by the expert was 7.93 minutes (&#177; 2.30). The average setup time taken by the novice was 10.47 minutes (&#177; 3.36). Novices were generally unable to achieve an error free setup even at the 5th session. Experts made infrequent setup errors.
Modern Method 
The modern methods require the head circumference of each subject is measured once in order to determine the appropriate size of the headgear to be used (S: 52&#8211;55.5 cm, M: 55.5&#8211;58.5 cm, L: 58.5&#8211;62 cm, XL: 62&#8211;65 cm). Sponges were pre-assembled and pre-saturated. The individual times taken for each setup trial were recorded (Figure 4). The average setup time taken by the expert was 1.23 minutes (&#177; 0.37). The average setup time taken by the novice was 2.53 minutes (&#177; 0.48). Novices were generally achieved an error free setup by the 5th sessions and any errors were minor. Experts made no setup errors. The modern tDCS approach here increases setup reliability while decreasing stimulation setup time.
Position Error 
The modern tDCS method allows electrode placement with comparable precision to an expert operator measuring traditional EEG 10-10 position. For example, for the M1-S0 using an appropriately designed strap, the mean position error is 1.5 mm, which is significantly less than the electrode size (5 cm x 5 cm) and not a relevant error for underling brain current flow19. For operator or self-application, the modern tDCS method is highly reliable.
Deployability 
The modern tDCS method can be as part of a tele-health program for chronically ill patient with multiple symptoms, including palliative care. For the M1-SO montage, replicable electrode placement was achieved. There were no difficulties with patients&#39; training, protocol adherence, or tolerability26. For the bifrontal montage replicable and tolerable stimulation was achieved in both patients with multiple sclerosis and Parkinson&#39;s disease32, confirming reliable placement was achieved even for self-application in subject with motor deficits.
Any absolute or relative contra-indication would remain the same across traditional and modern methods. Protocols found effective with the traditional method would apply to the modern, though the modern method would enhance robustness s and reproducibility especially in home or high throughput use.
<img alt="Figure 1" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/59204/59204fig01.jpg" /> 
Figure 1: Fixed-position headgear and pre-assembled sponge electrodes. (A) Some fixed-position headgear already include the necessary cables, with pre-assembled sponges designed to snap onto. (B)This figure indicates the headgear setup process by snapping the electrodes firmly in place on to the head strap. (C) Pre-assembled electrodes are already soaked in saline solution. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/59204/59204fig01large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
<img alt="Figure 2" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/59204/59204fig02.jpg" /> 
Figure 2: M1-SO montage and Bifrontal montage. (A, B) In the M1-SO montage setup, the anode is placed over the region corresponding to primary motor cortex (M1) and the cathode is placed over the contralateral supra-orbital (SO) region. (A) is the side view and (B) is the front view. (C, D) In the bifrontal montage setup, the anodal electrode is placed over the right and the cathodal electrode is placed over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. (C) is the side view and (D) is the front view. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/59204/59204fig02large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
<img alt="Figure 3" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/59204/59204fig03.jpg" /> 
Figure 3: Items that are generally present in every tDCS session. While some materials will depend on the target of the study/treatment, the items listed below are essential for the tDCS session described in this guide. These items include: 1) a tDCS device, 2) single-use snap sponge electrodes, 3) saline solution, 4) a fixed-position headgear (the one below includes the necessary connecting cables), and 5) a syringe for saline application if necessary. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/59204/59204fig03large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
<img alt="Figure 4" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/59204/59204fig4a.jpg" /> 
Figure 4: Setup times and performance scores for novices and experts applying both modern and traditional tDCS method. Expert and novice operators conducted the M1-SO montage setup five times using the traditional tDCS setup method and the modern setup method. The traditional setup method involves taking measurements for the M1-S0 position using the 10-20 EEG system and then placing the electrodes at the target location. For tDCS traditional and modern method, both experts and novices reviewed preparation instructions, as well as additional instructions before the first setup trials. The modern tDCS setup method reduces the setup time and improves performance for both expert and novice subjects because it removes the time-consuming step of the 10-20 EEG measurements for M1-S0 montage. When using the modern tDCS method (Panel B2 and D2), the average setup time taken by the experts and novices was 1.23 minutes (&#177; 0.37) and 2.53 minutes (&#177; 0.48) respectively. When using the traditional tDCS method (Panel B1 and D1), the average setup time taken by the experts and novices was 7.93 minutes (&#177; 2.30) and 10.47 minutes (&#177; 3.36) respectively. After each trial of electrodes setup, performance was measured on a 1-3 scale with 3 scored as error free setup and 1 scored as poor setup. The performance was higher for the modern tDCS method for both experts and novices. For the traditional tDCS method, the average performance by experts and novices was 2.75 (&#177; 0.25) and 1.5 (&#177; 0.25) respectively (Panel A1 and C1). For the modern tDCS method, the average performance by experts and novices was 3 (&#177; 0) and 2.75 (&#177; 0.3) respectively (Panel A2 and C2). Error bars show standard deviation. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/59204/59204fig4alarge.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
<table border="1" fo:keep-together.within-page="1" fo:keep-with-next.within-page="always">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td></td>
			<td>Classical Method</td>
			<td>Updated Method</td>
			<td>Benefit of Updated Method</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Electrode Positioning Measurement</td>
			<td>Multiple tape measures at each session.</td>
			<td>Single tape measure only at first session.</td>
			<td>Decreased time and increased reliability in electrode positioning.</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Electrode Preparation</td>
			<td>Multiple steps including assembly and saturation.</td>
			<td>No preparation (Pre-saturated). Includes snap connector.</td>
			<td>Decreased time and increased reliability in electrode preparation.</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Head-gear</td>
			<td>Rubber bands with multiple connections.</td>
			<td>Single head-gear with fixed snap connector positions.</td>
			<td>Decreased time and increased reliability in electrode positioning.</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>
Table 1: Summary comparison of classical tDCS method and the modern tDCS method. Regarding electrode position, electrode preparation, and headgear use, the modern tDCS techniques offer advances in reducing time and increasing reliability.

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Updated Technique for Reliable, Easy, and Tolerated Transcranial Electrical Stimulation Including Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation at JoVE.com

Updated Technique for Reliable, Easy, and Tolerated Transcranial Electrical Stimulation Including Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation

When administering transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), reproducible electrode preparation and placement are vital for a tolerated and effective session. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate updated modern setup procedures for the administration of tDCS and related transcranial electrical stimulation techniques, such as transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS).

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive method of neuromodulation using low-intensity direct electrical currents. This method of ...

updated-technique-for-reliable-easy-tolerated-transcranial-electrical

Research

JoVE Journal

Medicine

10.8K Views.  The City College of New York, CUNY. When administering transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), reproducible electrode preparation and placement are vital for a tolerated and effective session. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate updated modern setup procedures for the administration of tDCS and related transcranial electrical stimulation techniques, such as transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS).

Video: Updated Technique for Reliable, Easy, and Tolerated Transcranial Electrical Stimulation Including Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation

Simultaneous EEG Monitoring During Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a technique that delivers weak electric currents through the scalp. This constant electric current induces shifts in neuronal membrane excitability, resulting in secondary changes in cortical activity. Although tDCS has most of its neuromodulatory effects on the underlying cortex, tDCS effects can also be observed in distant neural networks. Therefore, concomitant EEG monitoring of the effects of tDCS can provide valuable information on the mechanisms of tDCS. In addition, EEG findings can be an important surrogate marker for the effects of tDCS and thus can be used to optimize its parameters. This combined EEG-tDCS system can also be used for preventive treatment of neurological conditions characterized by abnormal peaks of cortical excitability, such as seizures. Such a system would be the basis of a non-invasive closed-loop device. In this article, we present a novel device that is capable of utilizing tDCS and EEG simultaneously. For that, we describe in a step-by-step fashion the main procedures of the application of this device using schematic figures, tables and video demonstrations. Additionally, we provide a literature review on clinical uses of tDCS and its cortical effects measured by EEG techniques.

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that has shown initial therapeutic effects in several neurological conditions. The main mechanism underlying these therapeutic effects is the modulation of cortical excitability. Therefore, online monitoring of cortical excitability would help guide stimulation parameters and optimize its therapeutic effects. In the present article we review the use of a novel device that combines simultaneous tDCS and EEG monitoring in real time.

Transcranial  direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a technique that delivers weak electric  currents through the scalp. This constant electric current ...

Behavior

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Simultaneous  Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique that uses weak electrical currents administered to the scalp to manipulate cortical excitability and, consequently, behavior and brain function. In the last decade, numerous studies have addressed short-term and long-term effects of tDCS on different measures of behavioral performance during motor and cognitive tasks, both in healthy individuals and in a number of different patient populations. So far, however, little is known about the neural underpinnings of tDCS-action in humans with regard to large-scale brain networks. This issue can be addressed by combining tDCS with functional brain imaging techniques like functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) or electroencephalography (EEG).
In particular, fMRI is the most widely used brain imaging technique to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying cognition and motor functions. Application of tDCS during fMRI allows analysis of the neural mechanisms underlying behavioral tDCS effects with high spatial resolution across the entire brain. Recent studies using this technique identified stimulation induced changes in task-related functional brain activity at the stimulation site&#160;and also in more distant brain regions, which were associated with behavioral improvement. In addition, tDCS administered during resting-state fMRI allowed identification of widespread changes in whole brain functional connectivity.
Future studies using this combined protocol should yield new insights into the mechanisms of tDCS action in health and disease and new options for more targeted application of tDCS in research and clinical settings. The present manuscript describes this novel technique in a step-by-step fashion, with a focus on technical aspects of tDCS administered during fMRI.

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique. It has successfully been used in basic research and clinical settings to modulate brain function in humans. This article describes the implementation of tDCS and simultaneous functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), to investigate the neural basis of tDCS effects.

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique that uses weak electrical currents administered to the scalp ...

Electrode Positioning and Montage in Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a technique that has been intensively investigated in the past decade as this method offers a non-invasive and safe alternative to change cortical excitability2. The effects of one session of tDCS can last for several minutes, and its effects depend on polarity of stimulation, such as that cathodal stimulation induces a decrease in cortical excitability, and anodal stimulation induces an increase in cortical excitability that may last beyond the duration of stimulation6. These effects have been explored in cognitive neuroscience and also clinically in a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders &#x2013; especially when applied over several consecutive sessions4. One area that has been attracting attention of neuroscientists and clinicians is the use of tDCS for modulation of pain-related neural networks3,5. Modulation of two main cortical areas in pain research has been explored: primary motor cortex and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex7. Due to the critical role of electrode montage, in this article, we show different alternatives for electrode placement for tDCS clinical trials on pain; discussing advantages and disadvantages of each method of stimulation.

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is an established technique to modulate cortical excitability1,2. It has been used as an investigative tool in neuroscience due to its effects on cortical plasticity, easy operation, and safe profile. One area that tDCS has been showing encouraging results is pain alleviation 3-5.

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a technique that has been intensively investigated in the past decade as this method offers a ...

Neuroscience

Technique and Considerations in the Use of 4x1 Ring High-definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (HD-tDCS)

High-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) has recently been developed as a noninvasive brain stimulation approach that increases the accuracy of current delivery to the brain by using arrays of smaller "high-definition" electrodes, instead of the larger pad-electrodes of conventional tDCS. Targeting is achieved by energizing electrodes placed in predetermined configurations. One of these is the 4x1-ring configuration. In this approach, a center ring electrode (anode or cathode) overlying the target cortical region is surrounded by four return electrodes, which help circumscribe the area of stimulation. Delivery of 4x1-ring HD-tDCS is capable of inducing significant neurophysiological and clinical effects in both healthy subjects and patients. Furthermore, its tolerability is supported by studies using intensities as high as 2.0 milliamperes for up to twenty minutes.
Even though 4x1 HD-tDCS is simple to perform, correct electrode positioning is important in order to accurately stimulate target cortical regions and exert its neuromodulatory effects. The use of electrodes and hardware that have specifically been tested for HD-tDCS is critical for safety and tolerability. Given that most published studies on 4x1 HD-tDCS have targeted the primary motor cortex (M1), particularly for pain-related outcomes, the purpose of this article is to systematically describe its use for M1 stimulation, as well as the considerations to be taken for safe and effective stimulation. However, the methods outlined here can be adapted for other HD-tDCS configurations and cortical targets.

Technique and Considerations in the Use of 4x1 Ring High-definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation HD-tDCS

High-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS), with its 4x1-ring montage, is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique that combines both the neuromodulatory effects of conventional tDCS with increased focality. This article provides a systematic demonstration of the use of 4x1 HD-tDCS, and the considerations needed for safe and effective stimulation.

High-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) has recently been developed as a noninvasive brain stimulation approach that increases ...

Remotely Supervised Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation: An Update on Safety and Tolerability

The remotely supervised tDCS (RS-tDCS) protocol enables participation from home through guided and monitored self-administration of tDCS treatment while maintaining clinical standards. The current consensus regarding the efficacy of tDCS is that multiple treatment sessions are needed to observe targeted behavioral reductions in symptom burden. However, the requirement for patients to travel to clinic daily for stimulation sessions presents a major obstacle for potential participants, due to work or family obligations or limited ability to travel. This study presents a protocol that directly overcomes these obstacles by eliminating the need to travel to clinic for daily sessions.
This is an updated protocol for remotely supervised self-administration of tDCS for daily treatment sessions paired with a program of computer-based cognitive training for use in clinical trials. Participants only need to attend clinic twice, for a baseline and study-end visit. At baseline, participants are trained and provided with a study stimulation device, and a small laptop computer. Participants then complete the remainder of their stimulation sessions at home while they are monitored via videoconferencing software.
Participants complete computerized cognitive remediation during stimulation sessions, which may serve a therapeutic role or as a &#34;placeholder&#34; for other computer-based activity. Computers are enabled for real-time monitoring and remote control by study staff.
Outcome measures that assess feasibility and tolerance are administered remotely with the aid of visual analogue scales that are presented onscreen. Following completion of all RS-tDCS sessions, participants return to clinic for a study end visit in which all study equipment is returned.
Results support the safety, feasibility, and scalability of the RS-tDCS protocol for use in clinical trials. Across 46 patients, 748 RS-tDCS sessions have been completed. This protocol serves as a model for use in future clinical trials involving tDCS.

This manuscript provides an updated remote supervision protocol that enables participation in transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) clinical trials while receiving treatment sessions from home. The protocol has been successfully piloted in both patients with multiple sclerosis and Parkinson&#39;s disease.

The remotely supervised tDCS (RS-tDCS) protocol enables participation from home through guided and monitored self-administration of tDCS treatment while ...

Transcranial Electrical Brain Stimulation in Alert Rodents

Transcranial electrical brain stimulation can modulate cortical excitability and plasticity in humans and rodents. The most common form of stimulation in humans is transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Less frequently, transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) or transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS), a specific form of tACS using an electrical current applied randomly within a pre-defined frequency range, is used. The increase of noninvasive electrical brain stimulation research in humans, both for experimental and clinical purposes, has yielded an increased need for basic, mechanistic, safety studies in animals. This article describes a model for transcranial electrical brain stimulation (tES) through the intact skull targeting the motor system in alert rodents. The protocol provides step-by-step instructions for the surgical set-up of a permanent epicranial electrode socket combined with an implanted counter electrode on the chest. By placing a stimulation electrode into the epicranial socket, different electrical stimulation types, comparable to tDCS, tACS, and tRNS in humans, can be delivered. Moreover, the practical steps for tES in alert rodents are introduced. The applied current density, stimulation duration, and stimulation type may be chosen depending on the experimental needs. The caveats, advantages, and disadvantages of this set-up are discussed, as well as safety and tolerability aspects.

This protocol describes a surgical set-up for a permanent epicranial electrode socket and an implanted chest electrode in rodents. By placing a second electrode into the socket, different types of transcranial electrical brain stimulation can be delivered to the motor system in alert animals through the intact skull.

Transcranial electrical brain stimulation can modulate cortical excitability and plasticity in humans and rodents. The most common form of stimulation in ...

Chronic Transcranial Electrical Stimulation and Intracortical Recording in Rats

Transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) is a powerful and relatively simple approach to diffusely influence brain activity either randomly or in a closed-loop event-triggered manner. Although many studies are focusing on the possible benefits and side-effects of TES in healthy and pathologic brains, there are still many fundamental open questions regarding the mechanism of action of the stimulation. Therefore, there is a clear need for a robust and reproducible method to test the acute and the chronic effects of TES in rodents. TES can be combined with regular behavioral, electrophysiological, and imaging techniques to investigate neuronal networks in vivo. The implantation of transcranial stimulation electrodes does not impose extra constraints on the experimental design while it offers a versatile, flexible tool to manipulate brain activity. Here we provide a detailed, step-by-step protocol to fabricate and implant transcranial stimulation electrodes to influence brain activity in a temporally constrained manner for months.

This detailed protocol describes transcranial stimulation electrode placement on the temporal bone in order to investigate the short- and long-term effects of transcranial electrical stimulation in freely moving rats.

Transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) is a powerful and relatively simple approach to diffusely influence brain activity either randomly or in a ...

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in Mice

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique proposed as an alternative or complementary treatment for several neuropsychiatric diseases. The biological effects of tDCS are not fully understood, which is in part explained due to the difficulty in obtaining human brain tissue. This protocol describes a tDCS mouse model that uses a chronically implanted electrode allowing the study of the long-lasting biological effects of tDCS. In this experimental model, tDCS changes the cortical gene expression and offers a prominent contribution to the understanding of the rationale for its therapeutic use.

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation tDCS in Mice

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a therapeutic technique proposed to treat psychiatric diseases. An animal model is essential for understanding the specific biological alterations evoked by tDCS. This protocol describes a tDCS mouse model that uses a chronically implanted electrode.

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique proposed as an alternative or complementary treatment for ...

Home-Based Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Device Development: An Updated Protocol Used at Home in Healthy Subjects and Fibromyalgia Patients

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) method, which modulates the membrane potential of neurons in the cerebral cortex by a low-intensity direct current. tDCS is a low-cost technique with minimal adverse effects and easy application. This neurostimulation method has a promising future to improve pain therapy, treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders, and physical rehabilitation.
Current studies demonstrate the benefits of using tDCS over consecutive multiple sessions. However, the daily displacement to the specialized centers, travel costs, and disruptions to daily activities are some of the difficulties faced by patients. Thus, to be more comfortable, easy-to-use, and not disrupt daily commitments, a home-based tDCS was designed. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a portable tDCS device for home use in healthy subjects and fibromyalgia patients.
Despite increased tDCS use and a reasonably large body of research on the effects across a range of clinical conditions, there is a limited amount of research on developing secure devices that guarantee the dose and contain a block system to avoid excessive use. Therefore, we used a tDCS device with a security system to permit daily use for 20 minutes with a minimal interval of 12 hours between sessions. A programmer preconfigures the equipment, which has a neoprene cap that allows the electrode positions in any assembly, according to individualized protocols for treatments or research. After, researchers can assess the effectiveness of treatment, and its adherence using information kept in the device software.
Results suggest that the device is feasible for home use, with proper monitoring of adherence and contact impedance. There were reports of a few adverse effects, which do not differ from those reported in the literature in studies with the treatment under direct supervision.

This study provides an updated home-based tDCS protocol that enables subjects to receive the beneficial effects of tDCS at home with an easy to use device with settings to control the use and dosage, enhancing the feasibility for long-term use at home.

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) method, which modulates the membrane potential of neurons in the ...

Stimulation Location Determination using a 3D Digitizer with High-Definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation

The abundance of neuroimaging data and rapid development of machine learning has made it possible to investigate brain activation patterns. However, causal evidence of brain area activation leading to a behavior is often left missing. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), which can temporarily alter brain cortical excitability and activity, is a noninvasive neurophysiological tool used to study causal relationships in the human brain. High-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) technique that produces a more focal current compared to conventional tDCS. Traditionally, the stimulation location has been roughly determined through the 10-20 EEG system, because determining precise stimulation points can be difficult. This protocol uses a 3D digitizer with HD-tDCS to increase accuracy in determination of stimulation points. The method is demonstrated using a 3D digitizer for more accurate localization of stimulation points in the right temporo-parietal junction (rTPJ).

Presented here is a protocol to achieve higher accuracy in determination of stimulation location combining a 3D digitizer with high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation.

The abundance of neuroimaging data and rapid development of machine learning has made it possible to investigate brain activation patterns. However, ...