The Art of EMG: Predictive Value of Patient-Reported Outcomes via Coloring Schematic in Abnormality of EMG-NCS
Janet Lee1, Nadia Khalil1, Rebecca Hurst1
1University of South Florida, Department of Neurology
Objective:
This study is purported to evaluate patient-reported outcomes in predicting an abnormal electromyogram and nerve conduction study (EMG-NCS) using a schematic pre-screening form characterizing symptom nature and distribution.
Background:
Every EMG-NCS study must be tailored to the individual patient to effectively answer the clinical question, optimize efficiency, and minimize procedure-related discomfort. To accomplish this, skilled electromyographers perform a brief neurologic evaluation, which is typically comprised of a succinct clinical history and examination, prior to the procedure itself. Adjunctive predictive tools have potential to facilitate optimization of this and to enhance clinical workflow by streamlining the intake process. To date, a universal tool has not been studied.
Design/Methods:
This study was comprised of retrospective chart review of a schematic pre-screening form utilized in our university’s out-patient EMG-NCS laboratory and subsequent dichotomized (normal or abnormal) EMG-NCS outcome. Potential predictive patient-reported outcomes were defined by the study investigators. Each schematic pre-screening form was evaluated for these features by two blinded electromyographers. Statistical analyses were performed to ascribe predictive value of each of these features and to determine inter-rater reliability.
Results:
Data analysis is ongoing.
Conclusions:
This study is designed to explore potential utility of a schematic pre-screening form in predicting abnormal EMG-NCS. The results of this study can be utilized to inform additional research evaluating its impact on process improvement in the EMG-NCS laboratory.