Intraoperative Neurophysiologic Monitoring (IONM; IOM)

Overview

This is a way to monitor your nerves during surgery. It gives your surgical team real-time feedback. It helps keep your nerves safe during your procedure. Here's how it works.

Preparation

Before your surgery, electrodes are attached to your body. There are different types of electrodes, and they can be placed in different ways. In many cases, they are attached to the head, arms and legs. The electrodes are hooked up to a computer monitoring system.

During the surgery

During the surgery, electrical signals are sent through your nerves. The electrodes measure the speed and strength of these signals. If your surgeon touches or irritates a nerve, the signals change. When that happens, your surgeon is alerted right away. This keeps your nerves from being harmed.

Conclusion

Ask your healthcare provider for more information about this monitoring technique.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.