What is Wartenberg's bike?

Wartenberg round is a tool historically used in neurological examinations. It consists of a wheel with a series of sharp beams that can be converted over the skin to assess the patient's response to sensation. This device is not commonly used due to concerns about patients' sterility, although some neurologists work with a one -time plastic version, if it considers it useful for some testing. Other alternative options may include sterilized pins or needles discarded after each use. In a neurological evaluation, Pinprick testing, as is known, can be useful. Patients should be able to feel the rays and report on their location. If their feelings are disturbed, the Wartenberg wheel can be used to determine the area of ​​damage. For example, the spine root may be non -functional and the corresponding body area may not send pain feelings as a result.

This toolOJ can be used in different areas of the body to test the feeling and assess the patient's response. Especially after spine injury, regular testing can be part of the patient care to monitor complications. For example, a patient who has recently undergone spine surgery may have a pinprick test on his feet to confirm that he is still sending and receiving messages from the spine. If the patient loses sensitivity, it could mean swelling, nerve damage or other surgical complications that need to be addressed to maintain neurological function.

Concerns about the Wartenberg wheel surround the fact that it is difficult to sterilize. Many are not designed to draw blood, but can pick up infectious organisms that can take root into the wheel mechanism. Washing and sterilization of a steel tool between use may not be effective in busy practice, and alternatives may be more suitable. In tests where the Wartenberg bike is specifically necessary, the plastic version can conveniently provide the ability to perform a safety for patientnta.

Some doctors continue to sell Wartenberg Wheels in both steel and plastic versions. They are also left in medical museums and neurological research facilities as an example of what kind of tools used historically. If the Wartenberg wheel is used in testing, the neurologist may remove it from the sterile packaging in front of the patient to ensure that it is safe for use.