Nerve fiber conduction-velocity distributions. II. Estimation based on two compound action potentials

A method is presented for estimating nerve fiber conduction velocity distributions from non-ivasive measurements of the compound action potential at two distinct locations separated by a known distance along the nerve bundle. This method is based on a model of the compound action potential as a weighted sum of delayed single-fiber action potential, but does not require explicit knowlege of the single-fiber action potential wave shapes in order to yield a unique estimate of the conduction velocity distribution. Illustrative examples are presented from normal and diseased nerves. This method appears to have clinical applications in the electrophysiological assessment of peripheral nerve function.