Median and ulnar nerve conduction studies at the wrist: criterion validity of the NC-stat automated device.

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.