Nerve conduction studies (NCS)

Nerve conduction studies (NCS) are a neurophysiological examination that measures the ability of the peripheral nerves to conduct the electrical impulse. By stimulating a nerve at one point and recording the response at another point, it is possible to calculate the conduction velocity, the amplitude of the response and other parameters reflecting the integrity of the nerve. This examination makes it possible to distinguish two major types of nerve conditions: demyelinating conditions (destruction of the myelin sheath surrounding the nerve, leading to a slowing of conduction) and axonal conditions (destruction of the axon itself, leading to a reduction in the amplitude of the responses). This distinction is fundamental because it points towards different causes and treatments. Nerve conduction studies are systematically combined with needle EMG to make up a complete electroneuromyographic assessment. They are particularly effective in the diagnosis of entrapment syndromes (carpal tunnel, Guyon's canal, cubital tunnel at the elbow), polyneuropathies and polyradiculoneuropathies. The Clinique Pasteur in Tunis uses high-resolution digital electroneuromyography equipment, allowing precise and reproducible measurements. The examinations are carried out under standardised skin-temperature conditions, ensuring the reliability of the results.