Single- versus double-level nerve root compression. An experimental study on the porcine cauda equina with analyses of nerve impulse conduction properties.

Double-level nerve root compression had a greater effect on nerve impulse conduction, recorded as tail muscle action potential amplitude, than single-level compression at both 10 and 50 mm Hg. If the distance between the two compression sites at 10 mm Hg compression was increased from one vertebral segment (10 mm) to two vertebral segments (30 mm), the reduction of muscle action potential amplitude was further enhanced. These observations may give new insight into the pathophysiology of cauda equina compression in spinal disorders such as stenosis.