Assessment: Dermatomal somatosensory evoked potentials

The different conclusions reached by studies investigating the utility of DSEPs prevent a confident conclusion regarding utility. Some investigators are strong believers in the diagnostic usefulness of this technique. Others are mere skeptical. One possible cause is variable study design. Most studies provide evidence no higher than level III (case reports, expert opinions). Controlled studies, especially with blinded interpreters of the tests, would provide needed evidence of efficacy in view of the existing confusion in the literature. It is our consensus that the current evidence supporting the diagnostic use of DSEPs is Type D and that DSEPs should be regarded as Investigational, meaning that current evidence is insufficient to determine appropriateness. This group does encourage further study.