Establishing high-quality reference values for nerve conduction studies: A report from the normative data task force of the American Association Of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine

Introduction: There are not uniform standards for nerve conduction testing across the United States. The objective of this study is to present a set of methodologically sound criteria to evaluate the literature for the purpose of identifying high-quality normative nerve conduction studies (NCS) suitable for widespread use. Methods: The Normative Data Task Force (NDTF) was formed to review published studies on methodological issues related to NCS. A set of criteria was then developed to evaluate the literature. These criteria and their rationale are described. Results: We identified 7 key issues that reflect high quality in NCS. For each issue, specific review criteria were developed. Conclusion: Rigorous criteria enable identification of high-quality studies dealing with nerve conduction reference values. This represents the first step toward the overarching goal of recommending NCS techniques and reference values for electrodiagnostic medicine. Muscle Nerve 54: 366–370, 2016.