Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026
10:59
New Methods to Study Gustatory Coding
Published on: June 29, 2017
Sensory action potentials of the maxillary nerve: a methodologic study with clinical implications
Torben H Thygesen1, Lene Baad-Hansen, Peter Svensson
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, University of Aarhus, Denmark.
Summary
Sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) of the maxillary nerve were recorded in healthy volunteers. This new technique expands diagnostic capabilities for trigeminal nerve injuries.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Electrophysiology
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) are used to diagnose inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) damage.
- Current techniques are limited to the IAN, excluding other frequently injured trigeminal nerves.
Purpose of the Study:
- To adapt SNAP recording for the maxillary nerve.
- To establish a diagnostic method for maxillary nerve injuries caused by trauma or surgery.
Main Methods:
- Fourteen healthy volunteers underwent infraorbital nerve (ION) stimulation using needle electrodes.
- SNAPs were recorded from the maxillary nerve near the foramen rotundum.
Main Results:
- Mean SNAP latency was 0.73 ms; mean amplitude was 31.3 microV.
- No significant differences in latency or amplitude were found in repeated tests.
- SNAPs saturated at approximately 5.1 mA stimulus intensity.
Conclusions:
- Maxillary nerve SNAP recording is a feasible technique.
- This method offers a valuable tool for comprehensive trigeminal system examination.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Action Potential
Neurons communicate by firing action potentials—the electrochemical signal that is propagated along the axon. The signal results in the release of neurotransmitters at axon terminals, thereby transmitting information to the nervous system. An action potential is a specific "all-or-none" change in membrane potential that results in a rapid spike in voltage.
Membrane potential in neurons
Neurons typically have a resting membrane potential of about -70 millivolts (mV). When they receive...
Membrane potential in neurons
Neurons typically have a resting membrane potential of about -70 millivolts (mV). When they receive...
01:14Action Potential
Neurons communicate by firing action potentials—the electrochemical signal that is propagated along the axon. The signal results in the release of neurotransmitters at axon terminals, thereby transmitting information to the nervous system. An action potential is a specific "all-or-none" change in membrane potential that results in a rapid spike in voltage.
Membrane potential in neurons
Neurons typically have a resting membrane potential of about -70 millivolts (mV). When they receive...
Membrane potential in neurons
Neurons typically have a resting membrane potential of about -70 millivolts (mV). When they receive...
01:24Local Anesthetics: Differential Sensitivity of Nerve Fibers
Local anesthetics (LAs) block the sodium channels of nerve trunks, sensory nerve endings, and neuromuscular junctions. Although LAs can block all kinds of nerves, the sensitivity of nerve fibers differs according to nerve types and structures. LAs are known to block myelinated fibers faster than unmyelinated ones. Also, they block pain or sensory neurons at low concentrations without affecting the motor neurons involved in muscle contractions. This helps relieve labor pain without affecting the...
01:41Action Potentials
Overview