By Chris Faubel, MD –
Understanding nerve injury classification is essential for prognostic value clinically.
Some basic anatomy, along with the two classification systems, and their corresponding EMG findings need to be learned and remembered.
Two classification systems exist (and are frequently tested in various exams):
- Seddon’s classification (neuropraxia, axonotmesis, neurotmesis)
- Sunderland’s classification (types 1-5)
To understand the systems, you must first review some basic nerve anatomy.
