Clinical electrodiagnostic evaluation for nerve transfer surgery in spinal cord injury: a new indication and clinical pearls

In this review, we highlight the important role of the clinical electrodiagnostic (EDX) evaluation after cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). Our discussion focuses on the need for timely, frequent, and accurate EDX evaluations in the context of nerve transfer sur-gery to restore critical upper limb functions, including elbow extension, hand opening, and hand closing. The EDX evaluation is crucial to define the extent of lower motor neuron lesions and determine candidacy for surgery. We also discuss the important role of the postoperative EDX evaluation in determining prognosis and supporting rehabilitation. We propose a practical frame-work for EDX evaluation in this clinical setting.

Automated summary

This review emphasizes the significance of clinical electrodiagnostic (EDX) evaluation in patients with cervical spinal cord injury (SCI), particularly in the context of nerve transfer surgery to restore upper limb functions. The EDX evaluation is crucial in determining the extent of lower motor neuron lesions, candidacy for surgery, and prognostic evaluation postoperatively.