Minimally invasive nerve monitoring device and method

摘要

A neural monitoring device includes a stimulator configured to provide a stimulus, a mechanical sensor configured to generate an output signal corresponding to a sensed event, and a receiver configured to receive an output signal from the mechanical sensor and determine if the output signal corresponds to the stimulus provided by the stimulator.

主权项

1. A neural monitoring device, comprising:
a stimulator configured to provide a stimulus within an intracorporeal treatment area of a subject; a non-invasive mechanical sensor configured to:
be placed in contact with an external skin surface of the subject and in direct mechanical communication with a muscle of the subject; andgenerate an output signal corresponding to a sensed mechanical response of the muscle; and a processor configured to
receive the output signal from the mechanical sensor;provide a first indicator if the sensed mechanical response is attributable to a depolarization of a nerve that is caused by the provided stimulus; andprovide a second indicator if the sensed mechanical response is not attributable to the provided stimulus.