Intraoperative Neuro Monitoring (IONM)

Service Description

Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) is a rapidly-growing field that involves the monitoring of the central and peripheral nervous systems of patients undergoing surgical procedures. Electrodes are placed on the head, arms and legs or other muscle groups depending on the surgery, to monitor neurological signals. The neurophysiologist will connect the electrodes onto the muscles of the relative nerves which need to be monitored, specific to the surgery. The surgeon will then stimulate using a stimulator probe (see image below) prior to dissecting to confirm placements are correct and that the machine is in order. Upon further dissection (eg: removing a tumor) the surgeon will then stimulate the area to discern the location of the nerve to prevent potential nerve severing. Intraoperative Neuro Monitoring helps the surgical team efficiently prevent permanent or long-term impairment during an operation.