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Sacral reflex latency correlated by age and sex
D Pradal-Prat1, P Peray, P Mares
1Service d'Explorations Fonctionnelles du Système Nerveux, C.H.U, Nîmes, France.
Electromyography and Clinical Neurophysiology
|October 23, 1998
Summary
Sacral reflex latency norms were established in 190 healthy adults. Results show latency increases with age, and is longer in women than men, indicating sex- and age-related differences in nerve function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Urology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Pelvic floor dysfunction is often linked to age-related changes in nerves and muscles.
- Establishing precise norms for sacral reflex latency is crucial for diagnosing neurological conditions affecting the pelvic floor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine normative values for sacral reflex latency.
- To compare sacral reflex latency based on age and sex in healthy individuals.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 190 subjects with no prior nerve pathology.
- Stimulation of the dorsal nerve of the penis/clitoris and recording from the external anal sphincter.
- Utilized an averaging technique over 30 stimulations at 15 mA intensity.
Main Results:
- Average sacral reflex latency was 37.6 ms in men and 46.6 ms in women.
- Latency increased with age in both sexes.
- Values ranged from 36.6 ms (men under 35) to 55.6 ms (women over 75).
Conclusions:
- Significant differences in sacral reflex latency exist between sexes and across age groups.
- These findings provide essential normative data for clinical assessment of pelvic floor nerve function.
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