What is surgical neurophysiology?

Surgical neurophysiology, also known as intraoperative neurophysiology monitoring is an integral part of many neurosurgeries as well as orthopedic, peripheral nerve, vascular, and otolaryngologic surgeries. Any surgical procedure close to nerves and vascular structures inherently places those structures at risk. By providing neurophysiological data during your procedure, our team works with your surgeon to prevent or minimize potential surgical injury and future deficits.

What to expect Before Going to the operating room

Prior to surgery, your surgical neurophysiologist will meet with you to explain the risks and benefits of our services and ask your permission to perform the appropriate neurophysiologic tests based on your surgical procedure. At this time, you may ask your surgical neurophysiologist questions about our services. The surgical neurophysiologist performs a brief assessment and may place some surface adhesive pad electrodes based on the requested neurophysiologic modalities by your surgeon.

What Happens In The Operating Room

When you transfer to the operating room, you will see your surgical neurophysiologist and other OR team. After receiving adequate anesthesia to ensure your comfort, your surgical neurophysiologist will apply a series of sterilized small needles to various parts of your body. These needles transmit signals from specific parts of your nervous system to state-of-the-art monitoring devices. The captured data from your nervous system is communicated by your surgical neurophysiologist to your surgical team, in real time, during surgery. Rarely, patients experience minor bleeding, bruising, or muscle soreness from the needles. Additionally, there is a minimal risk of injuries to the tongue or lips.