NEUROMONITORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

摘要

Systems, devices and methods are provided for neuromonitoring, particularly neuromonitoring to reduce the risks of contacting or damaging nerves or causing patient discomfort during and after surgical procedures, including spinal surgeries. The neuromonitoring procedures include monitoring for the presence of or damage to sensory nerves, and optionally includes additional monitoring for motor nerves. In some systems, including systems that monitor for both sensory and motor nerves, components of the monitoring systems (e.g., stimulating electrodes and response sensors), may be combined with one or more surgical instruments. The systems, devices, and methods provide for pre-surgical assessment of neural anatomy and surgical planning, intraoperative monitoring of nerve condition, and post-operative assessment of nerve position and health.

主权项

1. A method of neuromonitoring, comprising:
delivering a first stimulus signal to a first stimulating electrode disposed at or near a dermatome innervated by a first nerve; receiving a nerve response signal detected by a response sensor disposed in tissue near the first nerve; determining a characteristic of the first nerve based on the nerve response signal; and communicating an indication of the characteristic to a user.