[Classification of local lead electromyograms].

The authors maintain that the classification of the electromyograms suggested by F. Buchthal in 1957 has become obsolete in view of an ever-growing number of electromyographic investigations that employ needle electrode leads. The main shortcoming of this classification lies in the fact that it does not allow the researchers to differentiate and evaluate the motor unit activity expressed as volley bursts of oscillations, which can be of special importance in diagnosing radiculitides, parkinsonism, neuromuscular apparatus lesions in thyrotoxicosis, and other disorders. In addition, electromyography is important for monitoring the time-course of the pathologic process in such patients when they are treated. A new classification of the electromyograms in needle electrode leading, which distinguishes types I, II, IIIa, IIIb and IV of the electromyogram, is advanced by the authors.