For Doctors | Additional Referral Guidance For Tests

Need assistance with what type of test to refer for ie NCS vs EMG?

Nerve conduction studies and electromyography are essentially part of the whole part of the neuromuscular investigation, but are two very separate modalities [see our test information for further details]. NCS and EMG are both conducted by Neurologist Dr Andrew McNabb, who also performs generally a brief clinical examination at the same time. Often in complex cases a detailed and extensive examination and history is taken, which will be bulk billed as a consultation. In this instance a detailed consultation letter as well as extensive nerve study report will be provided. EMG needle is not always required in simple nerve study investigations and will be performed as required and at the discretion of Dr Andrew Mcnabb. The number of muscles that require sampling varies, and is dependant on the clinical indication.
Electromyography (needle) generally a EMG is required to assess proximal nerve involvement (root/plexus), myopathies, complex / atypical mononeuropathies, or where there is severe atrophy prohibiting surface recording in NCS. Dr McNabb conducts the EMGs in association with a brief motor, sensory examination.
- Radial neuropathy
- Radiculopathy
- Plexopathy
- Myopathies.

Referrals

Please Fax All Referrals To (07) 4276 1867

We do not offer clinical consultations at present. Clinical referrals will need to be sent to an alternate service provider, including the Cairns Hospital, North Queensland Neurology or Townsville Neurosciences.