Conduction velocity distribution estimation using the collision technique for assessing carpal tunnel syndrome.

A technique for selectively activating nerve fibers based on their diameter using the collision technique and evaluating nerve integrity using a conduction velocity distribution (CVD) estimator is discussed in this paper. This study is aimed at improving current diagnostic techniques used for assessing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Current nerve conduction studies are influenced by the activity of the largest fibers active at the moment of recording and it is not possible to selectively analyze the functioning of smaller nerve fibers. According to the literature, the severity of CTS progresses from large nerve fibers to small nerve fibers. Therefore, the current study is an attempt to selectively evaluate nerve fibers based on their diameter and hence detect the severity of CTS in a patient more effectively.