Electrodiagnostic approach to cranial neuropathies

Abstract

This article is a general review of cranial nerve conduction studies, including techniques as well as interpretation of data. The needle examination of various cranial innervated muscles is also reviewed. The nerve conduction studies include the blink, masseter (jaw jerk), and masseter inhibitory reflexes, which evaluate the trigeminal (blink and jaw jerk) and facial nerves (blink), as well as trigeminal, facial, and spinal accessory motor stimulation. The needle examination techniques for certain voluntary muscles innervated by cranial nerves V, VII, X, XI, and XII are also described.