Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 29, 2026
Nerve Excitability Assessment in Chemotherapy-induced Neurotoxicity
Published on: April 26, 2012
The threshold tracking nerve conduction study technique: Experience of clinical users unfamiliar with a
C E McIlduff1, B J Wainger2,3, R L Freeman4
1Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
Objective:
To 1) explore if clinical electrophysiologists with different degrees of experience performing standard nerve conduction studies could run a threshold tracking nerve conduction study (TTNCS) protocol and 2) learn how clinical users view a research-grade TTNCSs neuronal excitability system.
Methods:
Five clinical electrophysiologists conducted a TTNCS session using QTracS and then completed a questionnaire describing their impressions.
Results:
All of the electrophysiologists completed the QTracS protocol on an initial attempt. Perceived strengths comprised the ease of preparatory steps and quick protocol speed. Identified drawbacks included an unwieldly user-interface. The electrophysiologists indicated that knowledge of TTNCS principles and applications would be critical for incorporation of the method into clinical use.
Conclusions:
This pilot study suggests that clinical electrophysiologists can carry out TTNCSs with a research-grade system. The development of a more user-friendly program, along with dedicated education and training, could lead to wider application of the TTNCS technique.
Significance:
Considered together with clinical presentation and other biomarkers, increased use of TTNCSs could provide improved assessment of neuromuscular disease and treatment response.
