Electrodiagnostic phenomena observed in patients with spinal cord lesions
Di Benedetto, M.
Electromyography and Clinical Neurophysiology 17(3-4): 205-220
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0301-150X PMID: 923502 Document Number: 120416
Patients (50) with spinal cord lesions from C3-T6 were examined with electrodiagnostic technique. The elapsed time since injury ranged from 1 mo.-15 yr. Ten patients were examined repeatedly (1-4 mo. intervals) to follow any possible change. Spontaneous potentials in lower extremity muscles were observed in almost all patients. Electromyographic findings observed in the upper and lower motor neuron areas of spinal cord injured patients at different time intervals were described. These studies included extremity muscles, diaphragm, when indicated, and urethral and anal sphincters. Stimulation studies were carried out when indicated on extremity motor nerves and phrenic nerves, routinely on sensory nerves of upper and lower extremities. The result suggested partial involvement of the lower motor neuron secondary to the upper motor neuron lesion which seems to be different at varied times during convalescence. Input deprivation or a kind of immune or other generalized response to the grossly altered physiology was suggested. Other common electrodiagnostic identifiable complications that frequently occurred as the patients remain supine or undergo an active rehabilitation program were also discussed.