A Comprehensive Guide to NCV Test

What is NCV Test?

NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocity) test, also known as a nerve conduction study, is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the function and integrity of peripheral nerves. It measures the speed at which electrical impulses travel along a nerve pathway, known as the nerve conduction velocity. The NCV test assesses the ability of nerves to transmit electrical signals, helping to diagnose and monitor various nerve-related conditions.

What does the NCV Detect?

Some of the key findings that can be detected through NCV testing include:

Nerve Damage: The NCV test can identify nerve damage or injury, such as those caused by trauma, compression, entrapment, or inflammation. It helps determine the location and extent of the damage, aiding in the diagnosis and management of conditions like nerve entrapment syndromes and peripheral neuropathy.
Nerve Conduction Slowing: NCV testing can reveal slowing of nerve conduction velocity, which can occur due to conditions such as demyelinating disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis), Guillain-Barré syndrome, or certain metabolic or hereditary neuropathies. Slowed nerve conduction can provide insights into the underlying pathophysiology and assist in confirming a diagnosis.
Nerve Compression: NCV testing is useful in diagnosing nerve compression syndromes like carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar neuropathy, or sciatica. It can identify the specific nerves affected by compression, determine the severity of the compression, and guide appropriate treatment strategies.
Nerve Entrapment: NCV testing can detect entrapment of nerves at specific anatomical sites, such as the cubital tunnel or tarsal tunnel. It helps identify the entrapment point, assess nerve function, and aid in surgical planning or other interventions.
Radiculopathy: NCV testing can assist in diagnosing radiculopathy, a condition involving the compression or irritation of nerve roots as they exit the spinal cord.

How does an NCV test work?

The NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocity) test, also known as a nerve conduction study, measures the speed at which electrical impulses travel along a nerve pathway. Here's a general overview of how an NCV test works:

Preparation: The patient is typically asked to remove any clothing or jewellery that may interfere with the test. They are then positioned comfortably, either lying down or sitting.
Electrode Placement: Small, adhesive electrodes are placed on the skin at specific points along the nerve pathway being evaluated. These electrodes act as both stimulators and sensors.
Stimulation Phase: One of the electrodes delivers a mild electrical impulse to the nerve being tested. The impulse causes a brief, controlled sensation, which may feel like a tingling or twitching.
Recording Phase: Other electrodes placed at different points along the nerve pathway record the electrical response from the muscle or sensory receptors.
Measurement and Analysis: The time it takes for the electrical signal to travel between the stimulating and recording electrodes is measured. This measurement, along with the distance between the electrodes, is used to calculate the nerve conduction velocity.
Repeat for Multiple Nerves: The above steps are repeated for each nerve being evaluated. Different nerves may require electrode placement in different locations on the body.
The NCV test may be performed in conjunction with electromyography (EMG), where fine needle electrodes are inserted into muscles to evaluate their electrical activity.

NCV Test Preparation & Procedure

Preparation for an NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocity) test and the procedure itself can vary slightly depending on the specific nerve being evaluated and the healthcare facility's protocols. However, here is a general overview:

Preparation:

Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as certain medications may interfere with the test results.
Avoid using lotions or creams on your skin on the day of the test, as they can interfere with electrode placement.
Dress comfortably in loose-fitting clothing that allows access to the areas being tested.

Procedure:

You will be asked to lie down or sit in a comfortable position.
The healthcare professional will clean the areas where the electrodes will be placed with an alcohol wipe to ensure good electrode-to-skin contact.
Electrodes will be attached to your skin using adhesive patches. These electrodes may be both stimulating electrodes (which deliver the electrical impulses) and recording electrodes (which pick up the responses).
The healthcare professional will apply brief, mild electrical impulses to the nerve being tested using the stimulating electrodes.
The responses from the muscle or sensory receptors will be recorded by the recording electrodes. This is done by placing the electrodes at specific points along the nerve pathway.
The process may be repeated at multiple points along the nerve pathway.
The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of nerves being evaluated.
Once the test is complete, the electrodes will be removed, and you can resume normal activities.

What Happens During an NCV test?

During an NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocity) test, several steps are involved to evaluate the function and conduction speed of your nerves. Here's a general overview of what happens during an NCV test:

Preparation: You will be positioned comfortably, either lying down or sitting. The healthcare professional will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have.
Electrode Placement: Small, adhesive electrodes will be placed on your skin at specific points along the nerve pathway being tested. These electrodes act as both stimulators and sensors.
Stimulation Phase: One of the electrodes will deliver a mild electrical impulse to the nerve being tested. The impulse may cause a brief, controlled sensation, which can feel like a tingling or twitching.
Recording Phase: Other electrodes placed at different points along the nerve pathway will record the electrical response from the muscle or sensory receptors.
Measurement and Analysis: The time it takes for the electrical signal to travel between the stimulating and recording electrodes is measured.
Repeat for Multiple Nerves: If multiple nerves need to be evaluated, the above steps will be repeated for each nerve. The healthcare professional may reposition the electrodes and adjust the stimulation parameters accordingly.
Completion: Once the testing is complete, the electrodes will be removed from your skin. The healthcare professional may provide you with immediate feedback on the preliminary findings, or the results may be analysed and reviewed later by a specialist.

NCV Test Price

In general, the cost of an NCV test in Delhi can range from approximately Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 5,000 or more and can vary depending on several factors, including the geographical location, the specific healthcare facility or diagnostic centre, and any additional services included in the package. Prices can also vary based on whether the test is performed alone or as part of a comprehensive nerve and muscle study that includes electromyography (EMG).

Best Diagnostic Centre for NCV Test in Delhi

One of the top diagnostic centres for NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocity) testing in Delhi is Ganesh Diagnostic & Imaging Centre. With a strong reputation for providing accurate diagnostic evaluations and exceptional patient care, Ganesh Diagnostic & Imaging Centre is considered one of the best choices for NCV testing in the region. The centre is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and advanced technology, ensuring precise and reliable test results. The team of highly skilled neurologists and technicians at Ganesh Diagnostic & Imaging Centre specialize in nerve and muscle disorders, bringing extensive expertise to the field of NCV testing.