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BAEP and E.M.G. changes from whiplash injuries
L L Serra1, B Gallicchio, F P Serra
1Università Federico II, Napoli.
Acta Neurologica
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Neurophysiological tests like EMG and BAEP can detect subtle nerve damage after whiplash injuries, even when imaging is normal. These tests help assess central motor and sensory pathway dysfunction following motor vehicle accidents.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurophysiology
- Traumatology
Background:
- Whiplash injuries from motor vehicle crashes often present with persistent symptoms despite normal neuroradiological findings.
- Evaluating the diagnostic and prognostic utility of neurophysiological tests is crucial for understanding these injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the diagnostic and prognostic validity of electromyography (EMG) and brainstem auditory evoked potential (BAEP) studies in patients with whiplash syndrome.
Main Methods:
- 120 young patients (18-31 years) with whiplash syndrome and normal neuroimaging underwent EMG and BAEP studies immediately after trauma and at six months.
- Median and ulnar nerve conduction velocities (NCV) and BAEP interpeak intervals were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Slowing of median and ulnar NCV was observed in 92 patients, persisting in 64 at six months.
- Increased BAEP interpeak intervals (I-III or I-V) were noted in 77 patients, persisting in 47.
- Simultaneous abnormalities in both EMG and BAEP were found in 31 patients, with 24 showing persistent changes.
Conclusions:
- Neurophysiological tests, including EMG and BAEP, can identify asymptomatic dysfunction in central motor and sensory pathways after whiplash injuries.
- These findings suggest potential subtle cerebral or brainstem lesions not evident on standard imaging.
- EMG and BAEP hold diagnostic and prognostic value in managing whiplash-associated disorders.