Patient Zone

The Neurophysiology Scientist is in communication with your Surgeon and the Anaesthetist to determine the level of monitoring that is required for your procedure.

Once you are asleep the Neurophysiology Scientist will place small needle electrodes into key positions in your scalp and in specific muscles in your body. Once you are positioned for the surgery initial readings are taken and a baseline is set.

During your surgery additional tests are performed and compared to this baseline. Your Surgeon will be alerted to any significant changes during your operation.

Yes, the risks of Spinal Cord Monitoring are extremely low.

No. You are asleep when the needle electrodes are placed and removed. You may however notice some small needle marks on your skin when you wake up.

Your Surgeon will outline the risks associated with your particular surgery. Spinal Cord Monitoring does not eliminate these risks however the monitoring serves as an early warning signal to identify potential nerve injury and gives the Surgeon real time information on nerve function.

If there is any change in the nerve function the Neurophysiology Scientist will inform the Surgeon and they will take any necessary action during your operation.

Spinal Cord Monitoring may be used in complicated spine procedures including:

• Deformity Surgery, Scoliosis & Kyphosis
  
• Complex Lumbar or Thoracolumbar Fusion
  
• Cervical Spinal Fusions
  
• Tumour Removal Surgery
  
• Other surgery where nerve structures may be a significant risk

Spinal Cord Monitoring may be used in complicated spine procedures including:

• Deformity Surgery, Scoliosis & Kyphosis
  
• Complex Lumbar or Thoracolumbar Fusion
  
• Cervical Spinal Fusions
  
• Tumour Removal Surgery
  
• Other surgery where nerve structures may be a significant risk