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A comparison of magnetic and electrical stimulation of spinal nerves
Author(s) -
Evans B. A.,
Daube J. R.,
Litchy W. J.
Publication year - 1990
Publication title -
muscle and nerve
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.025
H-Index - 145
eISSN - 1097-4598
pISSN - 0148-639X
DOI - 10.1002/mus.880130508
Subject(s) - stimulation , medicine , electromagnetic coil , anatomy , electrophysiology , brachial plexus , depolarization , lamina , physics , quantum mechanics
The utility of the magnetic coil for stimulation of the cervical spinal nerves was compared to electrical stimulation by a monopolar needle cathode placed onto the spinal lamina in six volunteers. No statistical difference in average amplitudes or areas of evoked CMAPs was found although the size of the magnetic coil evoked potentials was less at C7–8 in several subjects. Electrical stimulation resulted in depolarization at a more proximal site. Electrical stimulation was associated with more discomfort, especially at C5–6. We conclude that electrical stimulation using a monopolar needle as the cathode is the superior technique for the clinical electrophysiologic study of the proximal brachial plexus and cervical spinal nerves.