IONM is used to continuously monitor the functional integrity of neural pathways during surgery to prevent iatrogenic damage.
Continuous EEG monitoring helps detect changes in cortical activity that may indicate ischemia or other complications.
The type of anesthesia can significantly influence the quality of neurophysiological monitoring signals.
TcMEPs are used to monitor motor pathways by stimulating the motor cortex and recording responses from muscles.
Free-running EMG monitors spontaneous muscle activity to detect potential nerve irritation or damage during surgery.
BAEPs are used to monitor the integrity of the auditory pathways and brainstem function.
A sudden loss of TcMEPs could indicate potential neural injury, requiring immediate attention from the surgical team.
TIVA is preferred as it has less impact on neurophysiological signals compared to inhalational anesthetics.
A significant drop in SSEPs can indicate potential damage or compromise to the neural pathways being monitored.
These conditions may contraindicate the use of transcranial electrical stimulation due to the risk of adverse effects.
Baseline recordings are taken before any surgical intervention to provide a reference for detecting changes during surgery.