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In 58 subjects without signs or symptoms of peripheral nerve disorders, an antidromic sensory nerve conduction study was performed on the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. Anatomic dissections were performed on two cadavers to reveal the course of the nerve and to localize the optimal stimulation and recording sites. Mean sensory nerve action potential latency was measured at 1.7 msec (SD = 0.23) with a mean amplitude of 10.5 microV (SD = 4.0). The optimal localization of recording and stimulating surface electrodes and nerve conduction technique procedures are discussed. Reliable electrophysiologic criteria, according to age and body mass index, are obtained.

A prototype 'telethesis', a telemanipulator for high level tetraplegic and similarly disabled persons, has been developed in the French Spartacus project. The system has a modular control structure, both in the choice of transducers and in the microprocessor programmes assuring the ergonomic link with the individual user. A special training procedure has been developed and tested both in the laboratory and in the hospital. Six tetraplegic patients have used the system in the laboratory and seven in hospital. The experience of 6 months of experimentation in the occupational therapy department with the seven patients is reported. The telethesis has been well accepted by four of them, two of whom have used it for prolonged periods of time. One case has not been adapted with great success prior to his departure, and in two others the use of the system has been rejected, largely for psychological reasons.