Sensory threshold and conductance testing in nerve injuries.

Two electrical methods of assessing nerve function have been developed and have proved useful in clinical practice. Their role has been established in the diagnosis of injury, prognosis and the assessment of progress following repair. They provide an easily performed, objective measurement of nerve function. An indication of regeneration can be obtained some months ahead of accepted clinical signs. Failure to regenerate is noted equally early allowing re-exploration and secondary procedures to be undertaken sooner. Patient motivation is enhanced and a strong Doctor/Patient relationship is established by the ability to predict accurately the development of subsequent clinical signs and the extent of eventual nerve recovery.