Neurophysiological testing : Sensory evoked potentials

Diagnostic tests Medical history and physical examination Radiological texting Neurophysiological testing Electromyogram Evoked potentials Blood tests Other diagnostic tests

What it is:

It consists of the application of a sensory stimulus -usually a prick with a small electrical discharge - to register activation of the nerve conducting that sensation to the medulla, or even to the brain.

What it allows:

Since the activation of the complete sensory pathway is registered, it permits detecting eventual alterations, either in the nerve, medulla or the pathways conducting the sensation to the brain.

Risks:

The test may be a little painful, but usually less than EMG.

Indications:

Some of the existing recommendations based on scientific evidence advise the use of evoked potentials, along with the EMG, in assessing:

1. Patients with spinal stenosis
2. Patients in whom spinal cord disease is suspected.