Neuro Physiological Monitoring
Intraoperative Neuro-Physiological Monitoring in Brain and Spine Surgery
At Hannah Joseph Hospital, we are dedicated to providing advanced and safe surgical care. One of the most critical advancements in our neurosurgical procedures is Intraoperative Neuro-Physiological Monitoring (IONM). This technology has revolutionized brain and spine surgeries by enabling surgeons to detect and prevent neurological injuries in real-time.
Understanding Intraoperative Neuro-Physiological Monitoring
IONM is a clinical discipline that uses neurophysiological methods to monitor the nervous system during surgeries involving the brain and spinal cord. The primary goal of IONM is to prevent injury to the nervous system by providing real-time feedback to the surgeon about the functional integrity of neural structures. This allows surgeons to operate more safely, especially in anatomically indistinct or critical areas.
Benefits of IONM in Brain Surgery
Enhanced Safety in Tumor Resection
Surgery for brain tumors has become increasingly aggressive to ensure complete tumor removal. However, tumors located in eloquent (critical) areas of the brain require precise identification to avoid damaging essential functions. At Hannah Joseph Hospital, we use IONM techniques such as somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP) and motor evoked potentials (MEP) to map the sensory-motor areas of the brain.
– SSEP and MEP Mapping: These techniques provide continuous evaluation of the functional integrity of the nervous system, allowing neurosurgeons to receive real-time feedback. This helps in the safe resection of tumors, minimizing the risk of neurological deficits.
Monitoring Brainstem Functions
The brainstem is a small, complex structure that houses critical neural pathways and centers for vital functions such as cardiovascular and respiratory control. Brainstem tumors, even small ones, can cause severe and life-threatening neurological deficits. At Hannah Joseph Hospital, we use brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEP) alongside SSEP and MEP to assess the functional integrity of the brainstem.
– Safe Entry Zones: By using intraoperative electrical stimulation of the motor nuclei in the brainstem, surgeons can identify safe entry zones, avoiding damage to critical structures. This functional rather than anatomical localization is crucial for successful surgeries in this highly sensitive area.
Benefits of IONM in Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery
Preventing Neurological Deficits
Spine and spinal cord surgeries carry a high risk of neurological deficits such as paraparesis (partial paralysis of the lower limbs) or quadriparesis (partial paralysis of all four limbs). The closer the surgery is to the spinal cord, the higher the risk of injury. At Hannah Joseph Hospital, we use a combination of MEP and SSEP techniques to monitor spinal cord function during surgery.
– Predicting and Preventing Injury: This combined monitoring approach is highly effective in preventing paraplegia (complete paralysis of the lower limbs) and quadriplegia (complete paralysis of all four limbs). It helps predict transient postoperative motor weakness and distinguishes it from permanent damage, allowing for timely interventions.
Applications in Specific Spine Surgeries
Intraoperative monitoring is particularly beneficial in surgeries of the lumbosacral nervous system, such as those involving conus-cauda tumors and pediatric surgeries for tethered cord with lipomas attached to the filum terminale. Direct stimulation and recording of nerve roots help in identifying and preserving functional neural structures.
– Advanced Techniques: At Hannah Joseph Hospital, we have successfully used these advanced mapping techniques in numerous patients undergoing major brain and spine surgeries. This includes surgical decompression of fractured bones compressing the spinal cord and correction of spine deformities like kyphoscoliosis.
Our Experience at Hannah Joseph Hospital
Over the past five years, Hannah Joseph Hospital has been at the forefront of utilizing intraoperative mapping techniques to enhance the safety and effectiveness of brain and spine surgeries. Our experienced neurosurgeons leverage these advancements to navigate complex surgical landscapes, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Why Choose Hannah Joseph Hospital?
- Expertise and Experience: Our neurosurgeons are highly skilled and experienced in using IONM techniques, ensuring the highest standards of care.
- Advanced Technology: We employ the latest neurophysiological monitoring technologies to provide real-time feedback during surgeries.
- Patient-Centered Care: At Hannah Joseph Hospital, patient safety and well-being are our top priorities. We tailor our surgical approaches to meet the unique needs of each patient.
Trust Hannah Joseph Hospital for Advanced Surgical Care
Intraoperative Neuro-Physiological Monitoring is a crucial advancement in neurosurgery, significantly enhancing the safety and success of brain and spine surgeries. At Hannah Joseph Hospital, we are proud to offer this advanced technology to our patients, ensuring the best possible outcomes. Our commitment to using cutting-edge techniques and providing compassionate care makes us the preferred choice for neurosurgical procedures.
If you or a loved one is considering brain or spine surgery, trust the expertise and advanced care at Hannah Joseph Hospital. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your journey to recovery with the highest standards of medical excellence.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Hannah Joseph Hospital. We are here to help you navigate your healthcare journey with expertise and compassion.
