Volume of Tissue Activated
Also written as: VTA — Volume of Tissue Activated
The three-dimensional region surrounding a neurostimulation electrode where neural tissue experiences suprathreshold electric fields.
Full Definition
Volume of Tissue Activated (VTA) refers to the spatial extent of neural tissue that receives electric field strengths sufficient to modulate neural activity during neurostimulation. The VTA is determined by stimulation parameters including amplitude, pulse width, frequency, and electrode configuration, as well as tissue properties such as conductivity and fiber orientation. Computational models are used to predict VTA based on these parameters, helping clinicians optimize stimulation settings and understand the anatomical basis of therapeutic effects and side effects. VTA modeling is particularly important in deep brain stimulation for predicting which brain structures will be affected by stimulation.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as VTA; emphasize three-dimensional nature.
In Context
- "Computer modeling predicted the volume of tissue activated would encompass the sensorimotor territory." — Surgical planning report
- "Side effects were attributed to VTA extension into adjacent capsular fibers." — Programming troubleshooting