Diagnostic Sensitivity of F-wave Parameters in Unilateral S1 Radiculopathy

Background: F-wave study, part of electrodiagnostic study, has had a controversial sensitivity in the diagnosis of lumbosacral radiculopathy. Objectives: We aimed to compare F wave parameters obtained from the tibial nerve of both extremities in patients with unilateral S1 radiculopathy. Materials and Methods: The study was done from March to September 2015 in the Electrodiagnostic laboratory of an academic hospital affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. 19 consecutive patients with clinically and electromyographically approved diagnosis of unilateral S1 radiculopathy entered the study. F-wave parameters (F minimum latency, F maximum latency, F chronodispersion and F persistence) were recorded from tibial nerve of both extremities. Patients with diabetes, bilateral S1 radiculopathy or any other disease known to affect peripheral nerves were excluded from the study. Results: Of nineteen participants, 11 were men. Their mean±SD of age was 46.6±13.7 years. There were no significant differences between mean of F wave parameters recorded from affected and unaffected sides. Also, it was shown that, there was a positive correlation between these parameters in two extremities. Conclusion: The current study compared various F-wave parameters and the results did not support employing F-wave study as a sensitive method for detecting unilateral S1 radiculopathy.