Neurodiagnsotic Test

DNT utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic testing equipment and innovations in addressing the doctors' patients’ medical concerns. We are highly dedicated to supplying thorough diagnoses and interpitations that offer the highest quality care while offering convenience for our clients and our clients’ patients. Our clients eliminate the need to refer out to other specialists, therefore maintaining control and complete autonomy over their patients’ care.

Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) Tests
A nerve conduction velocity study aids in diagnosing peripheral nerve injuries and diseases affecting the peripheral nervous system. NCV testing is a non-invasive procedure that utilizes an electrical stimulator on the skin. This study measures the speed of conduction of impulses along the nerves. The nerve is stimulated, usually with surface electrodes, which are patch-like electrodes placed on the skin over the nerve at various locations. One electrode stimulates the nerve with a very mild electrical impulse. The resulting electrical activity is recorded by the other electrodes. The distance between electrodes and the time it takes for electrical impulses to travel between electrodes are used to calculate the nerve conduction velocity. A damaged nerve will conduct the electrical impulse at a slower rate, which is quantified in a report. This study also analyzes the strength of the electrical impulse, which allows the interpreting physician to make an estimated determination of the severity of the respective injury. A NCV test takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

Evoked Potential (EP) Studies
Evoked potential studies measure electrical signals along the nerve pathways. Two forms of evoked potentials are utilized in the evaluation of patients when clinically indicated. They include the Somatosensory Evoked Potential and the Dermatomal Evoked Potential.

Somatosensory Evoked Potentials (SEPs)
Somatosensory evoked potentials are generated from transcutaneous stimulation of the peripheral nerve using electrodes placed over the distribution of which nerve is being studied. Surface electrodes placed on the scalp record the potentials generated in the cerebral cortex. The potentials recorded are obtained by averaging several hundred responses. SEPs help to determine if there are demyelinating lesions in the peripheral nervous system and can also be useful in evaluating the proximal portion of the nervous system including the nerve root, cord entry, spinal cord, brainstem and cerebral cortex.

Dermatomal Evoked Potentials (DEPs)
Dermatomal evoked potentials are evaluated from transcutaneous stimulation of a sensory dermatome. The potentials generated in the patient's cerebral cortex are recorded with surface electrodes placed on the scalp. The recorded potentials are obtained by averaging several hundred responses. DEPs test specific nerve root levels.

Needle Electromyography (EMG) Tests
Needle EMG studies measure and record the muscle function and neurological status of the muscle in question. During an EMG study, a thin needle electrode is inserted into several muscles to test if a particular neuromuscular responce. The presence, size, and shape of the wave form – the action potential – produced on the oscilloscope provide information about the ability of the muscle to respond when the nerves are stimulated and at rest. Recordings are made while the muscle is at rest and during contraction. This study takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes to complete.

Autonomic Nervous System Testing
Autonomic test aids in the evaluation of the autonomic nervous system. Two forms of autonomic testing is utilized in the evaluation. They include Heart Rate Variation (R-R internal response)  and Sympathetic Skin Response (SSR). These test record the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic responses to different procdures and stimulations to the body.

      Heart Rate Variation (R-R internal response)
R-R interval are evaluated from a transcutaneous recording activity using a setup simular to an EKG to record the parasympathetic response to the pulse rate and rhythum to breathing, Valsalva maneuver and posture changes.

        Sympathetic Skin Response (SSR)
SSR are evaluated from transcutaneous stimulation of the activity in the sweat glands in response to both direct and reflex peripheral sympathetic trunk stimulation of the autonomic nervous system.

Problem-Focused Neurological Exams
Before any diagnostics are performed, an examination that is specific to the injury or complaints will be reviewed and/or performed to further ensure efficiency and correct utilization of the different tests. This step is important because it assures the patient, the clinic, and the insurance carrier the most appropriate and thorough application of care available.