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Establishing high-quality reference values for nerve conduction studies: A report from the normative data task force
Timothy Dillingham1, Shan Chen2, Michael Andary3
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pennsylvania, 1800 Lombard Street, First Floor, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19146, USA.
Introduction:
There are not uniform standards for nerve conduction testing across the United States. The objective of this study is to present a set of methodologically sound criteria to evaluate the literature for the purpose of identifying high-quality normative nerve conduction studies (NCS) suitable for widespread use.
Methods:
The Normative Data Task Force (NDTF) was formed to review published studies on methodological issues related to NCS. A set of criteria was then developed to evaluate the literature. These criteria and their rationale are described.
Results:
We identified 7 key issues that reflect high quality in NCS. For each issue, specific review criteria were developed.
Conclusion:
Rigorous criteria enable identification of high-quality studies dealing with nerve conduction reference values. This represents the first step toward the overarching goal of recommending NCS techniques and reference values for electrodiagnostic medicine. Muscle Nerve 54: 366-370, 2016.
