Name of the Procedure:

Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS); also known as Electroneurography (ENG)

Summary

Nerve conduction studies are diagnostic tests used to measure the speed and strength of electrical signals as they travel through your nerves. This helps to determine if your nerves are functioning properly.

Purpose

Nerve conduction studies help diagnose conditions that affect the peripheral nerves, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, and other nerve damage. The primary goal is to pinpoint the location and extent of nerve damage to guide appropriate treatment.

Indications

Nerve conduction studies are indicated for symptoms such as:

• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
• Muscle weakness or atrophy
• Chronic pain, especially in the limbs
• Suspected nerve compression or injury

Patients with unexplained muscle weakness, chronic limb pain, or symptoms of nerve compression are good candidates for this procedure.

Preparation

• No specific fasting required.
• Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking.
• Avoid applying lotions or creams on the skin as it may affect electrode adhesion.
• Pre-procedure assessments and physical examinations are generally performed.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated or lying down comfortably.
2. Surface electrodes are placed on the skin over the nerves being tested.
3. A small electrical stimulus is delivered through the electrodes to the nerve.
4. The resultant electrical activity is recorded.
5. Multiple nerves in different locations are tested, amounting to 7-8 studies.

6. The data is analyzed to evaluate the conduction speed and response strength.

   No anesthesia or sedation is typically required. The procedure involves specialized equipment to deliver and record electrical signals.

Duration

The procedure usually takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

Nerve conduction studies are typically performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or specialized diagnostic center.

Personnel

Conducted by a neurologist or a trained technician specializing in neurophysiology, often with the assistance of nursing staff.

Risks and Complications

• Minor discomfort or pain where the electrical stimulus is applied.
• Rarely, skin irritation at the electrode sites.
• No significant long-term risks or complications are commonly associated with this procedure.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of nerve disorders or injuries.
• Helps in creating an effective treatment plan.
• Results are generally available promptly for further medical action.

Recovery

• No special post-procedure care needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results and next steps.

Alternatives

• Electromyography (EMG) to assess muscle activity.
• Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans for structural evaluations.

• Clinical examinations and blood tests for metabolic or systemic conditions impacting nerves.

  Each alternative has its own advantages and disadvantages based on specificity, invasiveness, and the condition being diagnosed.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel brief, mild discomfort or tingling during electrical stimulation.
• Post-procedure, mild soreness or skin irritation can occur but typically resolves quickly.
• Comfort measures include distraction techniques and reassurance to minimize anxiety.