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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2015; 19(02): 112-120
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1545075
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Neurophysiology Simplified for Imagers

Authors

  • Payam Mohassel

    1   Department of Neurogenetics, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland

  • Vinay Chaudhry

    2   Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
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Publication History

Publication Date:
12 March 2015 (online)

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Abstract

Electrodiagnostic studies are powerful diagnostic tools that complement the clinical evaluation of patients with neuromuscular disease. However, their proper interpretation requires a hypothesis-driven approach that depends on clinical information and physical examination findings. In principle, Bayesian methods of reasoning determine both the plan of examination and interpretation of results. Thus neuromuscular disease training with an understanding of peripheral nervous system anatomy, nerve and muscle physiology, pathophysiology, pathology, management, and prognosis are as important as technical training for performance of the test. In this article, geared toward imagers, we review the basic principles of electrodiagnostic studies, typical measurements, and their interpretation both in normal and common disease states.

Keywords

electromyography - nerve conduction study - neuromuscular disease - neuropathy - myopathy