1. Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) involves techniques like cortical mapping, evoked potential monitoring, and electromyography to identify and preserve neural structures during brain and nerve surgeries.
2. Key techniques include somatosensory, motor, and visual evoked potential monitoring, EEG, and direct stimulation and monitoring of all 12 cranial nerves except CN I.
3. Proper anesthetic management is important to minimize effects on neurophysiological signals. The optimal technique uses a balanced narcotic with low-dose inhalational agents.
4. IONM provides real-time feedback to help surgeons avoid injury to critical structures like motor areas or cranial nerves.