[Elementary electromyographic analysis and motion patterns of the myoglossus muscle]

In five fully dentulous and one edentulous patient, the m. myloglossus was examined by means of concentric needle electrodes and implanted wire electrodes. It was not possible to achieve absolute inertia with the conductors. The individual potentials of motoric units are bi- and triphasic. The duration was 3 to 5 msec, and the amplitude was 200 to 800 muvolt. The portion of polyphasic potentials is about 5%. With moderate innervation the discharge frequency is 2 to 8/sec. With maximum innervation, interference activity is observed. Kinetic studies showed that the m.myloglossus acts as typical antagonist in lateral tongue movements and as synergist when raising tongue and throat. From these findings conclusions may be drawn with regard to prosthetics.