Abstract: Objective To evaluate the neurological function of cervicalspondylotic radiculopathy by somatosensory evoked potentials (SEP) and provide an objective basis for selecting the best operation occasion. Methods 60 patients with C6 and C7 radiculopathies were divided into 3 groups according to the results of SEP: normal group (n=22), mildly abnormal group (n=30) and severely abnormal group (n=8). All the patients underwent anterior cervical decompression and fusion. They were assessed with Neck Disability Index (NDI) before and after treatment. Results The postoperative NDI scores of all the groups improved significantly (P<0.001), especially in the normal group.Conclusion SEP, which can reflect the severity of cervicalspondylotic radiculopathy objectively and predict prognosis.

Key words: cervicalspondylotic radiculopathy, somatosensory evoked potentials, anterior cervical decompression and fusion, Neck Disability Index