Refractory period of human sural nerve action potential related to age in healthy probands

150 sural nerves from 150 probands 10-70 years of age were investigated by applying supramaximal paired electric stimuli and recording the action potentials with needle electrodes. The responses to the first and second stimulus were evaluated with respect to latency and amplitude. Correlation of the electrophysiological findings with the age of the probands gave the following results: (1) Slight but statistical insignificant reduction of conduction velocity with advancing age up to 70 years. (2) Statistical significant decrease of amplitudes and prolongation of potential duration with advancing age. (3) No significant relationship between refractory period (latency and amplitude of the test response) and advancing age up to 70 years. The results are discussed in terms of their clinical meaning.