Somatosensory evoked potentials in the assessment of peripheral neuropathies: Commented results of a survey among French-speaking practitioners and recommendations for practice

Abstract

Background: Somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) are increasingly performed for the assessment of peripheral neuropathies, but no practical guidelines have yet been established in this specific application.

Study aim: To determine the relevant indication criteria and optimal technical parameters for SSEP recording in peripheral neuropathy investigation.

Methods: A survey was conducted among the French-speaking practitioners with experience of SSEP recording in the context of peripheral neuropathies. The results of the survey were analyzed and discussed to provide recommendations for practice.

Results: SSEPs appear to be a second-line test when electroneuromyographic investigation is not sufficiently conclusive, providing complementary and valuable information on central and proximal peripheral conduction in the somatosensory pathways.

Conclusions: Guidelines for a standardized recording protocol, including the various parameters to be measured, are proposed.

Clinical relevance: We hope that these proposals will help to recognize the value of this technique in peripheral neuropathy assessment in clinical practice.

Keywords: Diagnosis; Diagnostic; Evoked potentials; Indication; Neuropathies périphériques; Parameters; Paramètres; Peripheral neuropathies; Potentiels évoqués; Technique.