Comparing the results of lower extremity electro diagnostic findings before and after lumbar disc herniation surgery

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to compare the results of lower extremity electrodiagnostic findings before and after lumbar disc herniation surgery. Methods: In a clinical trial study during 2015-2016, 30 patients with single disk herniation and lumbar disc surgery were selected and electromyogram (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test were done for them before and 4 weeks after the surgery; findings of before and after operation were compared. Findings: Latency parameter on both, the left and right lower limbs decreased significantly. In contrast, amplitude and velocity parameters increased in both right and left lower limbs. The velocity amplitude significantly increased in both right and left lower limbs. Four parameters, positive sharp wave, and amplitude, duration and potential of polyphasic wave in gluteus maximus and antetibialis muscles significantly decreased after the surgery; but, the percent of recruitment reduction in these muscles was not significant. All these five parameters in the gastrocnemius and vastus medialis muscles and also limb positive sharp wave (PSP) significantly decreased. Conclusion: Electerodiagnostic and electromyography findings can show nerve roots engagement in pre- and post-operation periods; and therefore, discectomy in patients with postoperative pain or discomfort caused by the presence or recurrence of neurologic involvement complain, to determine the involvement and pressure on the spinal nerve roots, can be used this method to determine the source of pain in these patients. © 2016, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.