Use of the Electromyogram in Evaluating Upper-Extremity Peripheral Nerve Lesions

¹ Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopaedics, Duke University Medical Centre, Durham

The electromyogram, if utilized properly and if interpreted correctly, will provide specific information concerning peripheral nerve lesions of the upper extremity. Peripheral nerve laceration, compression, contusion, or stretch can be identified, and axon regeneration associated with any of these conditions may be readily delineated by the electromyogram.

The equipment necessary is not overwhelmingly complex or expensive. Once the technique is mastered and interpretation learned, the time spent carrying out the test has proved to be worth while. The physician testing the patient should be familiar with all forms of muscle testing, muscle function, and peripheral nerve distribution, as well as with the limitations of the information secured. Peripheral nerve injuries can be managed adequately without using electromyography but during the time that we have used this diagnostic aid, we have gained additional confidence in both diagnosis and prognosis.

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