Minimum standards for electromyography in Canada: a statement of the Canadian Society of Clinical Neurophysiologists.

BACKGROUND

Electromyography (EMG) is a widely used diagnostic technique for disorders of the nervous system. The Canadian Society of Clinical Neurophysiologists (CSCN) promotes the education, evaluation and standards of EMG in Canada. A statement of practice standards was needed to clarify the position of the CSCN on several issues relevant to the practice of EMG.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A subcommittee of the CSCN reviewed current patterns of practice and established guidelines for review by the CSCN. The guidelines developed by the subcommittee were reviewed by the CSCN and adopted as recommendations for EMG practice. The subcommittee was charged with formulation of a document for publication.

CONCLUSIONS

This document deals with minimum standards for electromyographer education, laboratory operation, equipment and a variety of special circumstances relevant to the practice of EMG. The standards can be adopted by EMG laboratories to guide quality assurance.