Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A portable system for substantially automated monitoring of nerve conduction velocity through the carpal tunnel of a patient includes an electrode supporting structure which supports stimulating and pickup electrodes in a predetermined spatial relationship so as to contact the patient's arm and hand. The electrode supporting structure is a part of a housing which contains stimulating signal generating and response signal processing circuitry, which operates substantially automatically under control of a microprocessor. The microprocessor controls generation of stimulating pulses and determines the elapsed time until the occurrence of a predetermined response signal characteristic, such as its peak. Data relating to nerve conduction time or velocity measurements and response signal waveform are stored in a removable memory to permit later analysis and treatment recommendation by a physician. The system is useful for screening large groups of people at remote locations, such as workers at an employer's facilities, for evaluating their median nerve condition and likelihood of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim