Tibial Nerve SEP Shows Promise in detection of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) can cause debilitating back pain and nerve-related symptoms, it has been notoriously challenging to diagnose accurately. However, a recent study published in Clinical Neurophysiology Practice found a promising technique that utilizes somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) in the tibial nerve, offering new hope for LSS patients.
The retrospectively study focused on patients with MRI-confirmed LSS located at the cauda equina or conus/epiconus region and recorded the P15 and N21 potentials and identified specific abnormalities as diagnostic markers. Localizing abnormalities, including a normal P15 latency with either a prolonged P15-N21 interval or an absent N21, were found in 67% of patients, making this approach significantly more sensitive than traditional diagnostic methods.
Importantly, the newly discovered technique surpassed other diagnostic markers' sensitivities. While delayed P38 latency offered a sensitivity of just 28%, and N21 abnormalities provided 39%, the P15 and N21 potentials combined displayed a higher sensitivity that could potentially revolutionize LSS diagnosis.
Moreover, this method demonstrated its ability to identify LSS even in patients who did not present typical sensory symptoms or signs. The study discovered that localizing abnormalities were present in six out of eleven patients without these hallmark indicators, making it a valuable tool for early diagnosis.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.