Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, including details on symptoms, causes, trauma, diagnosis, physiotherapy.

Median and Ulnar Nerve Conduction Studies at the Wrist: Criterion Validity of the NC-Stat Automated Device.

Armstrong TN, Dale AM, Al-Lozi MT, Franzblau A, Evanoff BA

From the Departments of General Medical Sciences (Mr Armstrong, Ms Dale, Dr Evanoff) and Neurology (Dr Al-Lozi), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Mo; and Department of Environmental Health Sciences (Dr Franzblau), University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Mich.

OBJECTIVE:: To compare results obtained with the NC-stat-an automated nerve testing device-to traditional nerve conduction studies relevant to carpal tunnel syndrome screening. METHODS:: Thirty-three subjects recruited from patients referred for electrodiagnostic testing were studied. Measurements including the distal motor latency (DML), distal sensory latency (DSL), and median-ulnar latency difference (MUD) were obtained by the NC-stat and by standard nerve conduction studies. RESULTS:: With modifications to the NC-stat's suggested reference ranges, sensitivity with respect to the traditional results ranged from 93.8% (sensory MUD) to 100% (median DML and DSL) and specificity ranged from 84.6% (motor MUD) to 94.1% (sensory MUD). Sensitivity was as high or higher and specificity was lower when using the manufacturer's suggested cutoffs. CONCLUSION:: The NC-stat appears to be a convenient and sensitive method for detecting median nerve pathology at the wrist.

Published 11 July 2008 in J Occup Environ Med, 50(7): 758-764.
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