Abstract
: The bulbocavernosus reflex (BCR) is mediated by the sacral somatic afferent/efferent periphery as well as the sacral cord. Unfortunately, the reflex has suffered from a partly deserved reputation as difficult to implement. However, recent stratagems have improved the test's reliability. Multipulse stimulation (enhanced by double trains as required) and exacting recording technique can yield positive and remarkably reproducible results in patients of all ages and either sex. In this review, we document a 94% baseline BCR acquisition rate among 100 consecutive cases in one institution. Acceptance and routine use of the BCR is needed to help assure optimal post-operative low sacral function in intradural and extradural surgeries at the level of conus medullaris, cauda equina, sacral plexus, and the pudendal nerve. Case studies within this review illustrate the power of the BCR to predict patient outcome or, much more importantly, reverse incipient patient injury in real time.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
