Compressive Neuropathies-Dr. Laughlin - Compressive Neuropathies

Dr. Laughlin - Compressive Neuropathies

Pdf Summary

This document focuses on ulnar neuropathy, a condition that affects the ulnar nerve in the elbow. The objectives of the document are to provide an electrodiagnostic approach using nerve conduction studies and needle electromyography (EMG) in the diagnosis of ulnar neuropathy, highlight the pitfalls in interpreting electrodiagnostic studies for ulnar neuropathy, and discuss the role of ultrasound as an adjunctive tool in diagnosing ulnar neuropathy.<br /><br />The document presents several case studies of patients with ulnar neuropathy symptoms and describes their physical examination findings. It discusses the use of nerve conduction studies (NCS) and needle EMG in diagnosing ulnar neuropathy, outlining the motor NCS protocol and the inching stimulation technique. It emphasizes the importance of performing crossover checks and includes specific instructions on performing ulnar motor NCS and inching stimulation. It also mentions the needle examination of ulnar and non-ulnar C8-T1 muscles.<br /><br />The document further discusses the sensory studies for ulnar neuropathy, such as ulnar antidromic sensory testing and dorsal ulnar cutaneous sensory testing. It highlights the potential role of ultrasound in diagnosing ulnar neuropathy, presenting studies that demonstrate the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound in comparison to nerve conduction studies. The document also mentions the predictors of outcome in ulnar neuropathy and the possibility of salvage procedures for failed cases.<br /><br />In summary, this document provides a comprehensive overview of the electrodiagnostic approach, clinical features, and diagnostic tools for ulnar neuropathy, with a specific focus on the use of nerve conduction studies, needle electromyography, and ultrasound. It also includes case studies and references for further reading.

Keywords

ulnar neuropathy

ulnar nerve

electrodiagnostic approach

nerve conduction studies

needle electromyography

ultrasound

diagnosis

case studies

sensory studies

diagnostic accuracy

ncs

nmus

sono