When a patient comes in because their muscles feel sore, tired, or weak, it’s vital that you have the ability to diagnose their symptoms quickly. As such, an EMG system that’s designed to measure the electrical activity of the human nervous system, with or without stimuli, is a must-have component for any exam room. However, with the wide variety of EMG systems available, it’s not easy to determine which features are needed for your operation. Fortunately, we’re here to help by breaking down the five best features to look for in an EMG system.

1) Portability and Flexibility

Most EMG systems have a variety of uses, so the ability to use it on the move or for multiple test types can be crucial. Because of this having an EMG machine that’s adaptable and feature laptop computers are highly recommended.

Consisting of just two components, the TECA Synergy N2 EMG Machine, is a great example of a portable and flexible system. Featuring a lightweight notebook PC that includes plinth, an amplifier, probe inputs, a stimulator, and dedicated controls, the Synergy N2 utilizes customized instrument settings for each test/nerve, that can be changed on the fly for superior flexibility. Plus, the unique on-screen monitor trace checks signal quality before stimulating a patient.

2) A Large Powerhouse

On the other hand, if your exam room is more conducive to a stationary operation, a larger, more powerful EMG may be better suited for your needs. Capable of accommodating almost any need, larger units boast most of the features of portable units in a single-room, rooted format.

A prime example of this is the Cadwell Sierra II Wedge EMG System. Perfect for working in a stationary location, this top-of-the-line, hefty EMG is durable and strong enough for a 21” monitor to sit directly on top of it for exceptional viewing quality. Set up with a desktop computer, monitor, and printer, it can be placed on our large custom cart that is included with the system or it can be placed on a desk in the lab and all EP capabilities are built into the base and EMG, NCV, F-Wave, H-Reflex, RNS, Blink Reflex, and SEP protocols come standard.

3) Online Reports

The accessibility and readiness of results and reports can set an EMG system apart from the competition. From online access, to customizable reports, and immediate access to results, choosing an EMG system with a state-of-the-art reporting system is one of the best choices you can make.

With the Cadwell Sierra II Wedge EMG System users can take advantage of the Report Generator feature for unlimited custom templates that can be created and assigned to specific tests, or from an extensive list of factory-set report templates. Traces, including EMG, tabulated measurements, patient information, findings, conclusions, and comments can all be part of the report. You can even choose to see abnormal results, normal and abnormal results, results grouped by nerve or abnormality, and the actual wording of the sentence. Reports can be signature ready in as little as one minute and can even be faxed or emailed for further viewing and analysis.

4) Faster Testing

The faster testing can occur, the faster your patients can be diagnosed, making this one of the most important features you can find in an EMG system. With this in mind, making sure that your EMG system has all the bells and whistles necessary is one of the most important aspects to consider when making a purchase.

For example, the TECA Synergy T2X NCS EMG Machine features a protocol wizard that stores protocols, patient side controls, a continuous monitor trace alongside acquisition screen, and automated marking algorithms that help you save time placing markers and giving faster results. It includes all those innovative features plus advanced recording and stimulus techniques to capture data and simplify review including: nerve conduction studies, neuromuscular studies, EMG studies, needle EMG studies, quantitative EMG studies, single fiber EMG studies, and SEP studies make the T2X one of the fastest EMG machines on the market today.

5) Electrical Stimulator Probe

Patient comfort is of the utmost importance when using an EMG system. With the right electrical stimulator probe you can ensure your patient will be comfortable throughout the entire procedure and that you’ll get the most accurate results possible in the process.

With the Nicolet EDX EMG/NCS/EP/IOM System and it’s small, lightweight, and ergonomically designed probe, this cutting-edge EMG keeps the patient comfortable, while still providing accurate and expedient results. It has five probe head options and a coiled cable that extends reach to the patient without touching the floor. The EDX’s probe makes it one of the most comfortable and accurate systems available.

Supplies and Accessories

At MFI Medical you can also enhance those features and take your EMG system to the next level with an extensive selection of EMG EP supplies to help make sure you’re getting the most out of your system for years to come. With first-rate accessories like the Technomed Disposable Concentric EMG Needle Electrode, MFI Medical Ring EMG Electrodes, Parker Signagel Electrode Gel, Parker Tensive Conductive Adhesive Gel, and more, we carry everything you need to keep your EMG operating at peak efficiency.

Keep your eyes peeled and continue to check out our blog for more on EMG EP systems and supplies in the future. When you’re ready to invest in an EMG machine visit our specials page to take advantage of current promotions or contact one of our EMG experts at (800) 633-1558 if you have any further questions.

Editor’s Note: Information, prices, and products are subject to change. Please visit product listings or contact MFI for most up to date information.