Article

The aim of this study was to evaluate morphologically and
electrophysiologically the peripheral nerves of hemiplegic patients. DESIGN: Thirty-three (18 women and 15 men) stroke patients were recruited. The mean (SD)
age was 55.6 (11.3) yrs, and the mean (SD) disease duration was 14.2 (16.0) mos.
Motor nerve conduction study of the median, ulnar, fibular, and tibial nerves as
well as sensory nerve conduction study of the median, ulnar, and sural nerves
were performed. Diameters and cross-sectional area (CSA) measurements of the
median (wrist/midarm levels) and sciatic nerves (midthigh level) were acquired
using a 7- to 12-MHz linear probe. The values of the nonparetic limbs were taken
as controls. RESULTS: Prolonged distal latency and slowed motor conduction
velocity of the tibial nerve as well as reduced amplitudes of the median and
ulnar nerves were observed on the paretic sides when compared with those of the
nonparetic sides (all P < 0.05). The median and sciatic nerve cross-sectional
area values were found to be smaller on the paretic sides when compared with the
nonparetic sides (all P < 0.05). The median and ulnar nerve compound muscle
action potential amplitudes (paretic side) were positively correlated with
arm/hand Brunnstrom Motor Recovery Stage, disease duration, motor Functional
Independence Measure score, and Functional Ambulation Category. CONCLUSIONS: The
peripheral nerves of stroke patients seem to be affected--morphologically and
electrophysiologically--on the paretic side.

Langue : ANGLAIS