Real-time visualization to treat brain & spinal cord injuries with intraoperative neuromonitoring & neuronavigation techniques at Yashoda Hospitals.

What is intraoperative neuromonitoring & neuronavigation?

A unique surgical navigation method called neuronavigation uses computer and imaging technology along with a real-time visualization feature to reach targeted or specific regions of the brain and spine to locate tumors or lesions. It also serves as a guide for surgeons while they perform procedures. This method is a minimally invasive procedure, reducing the need for large incisions, unlike the traditional techniques.

In intraoperative neuromonitoring, the functional integrity of these neural structures—such as nerves, spinal cords, and brain regions—is monitored.

At Yashoda Hospitals, we are dedicated to providing top-tier neurological care, making us one of the best neurology hospitals. Our team of experienced neurologists & neurosurgeons uses advanced technologies to diagnose and treat a wide range of brain and spine disorders.

Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, including intraoperative neuromonitoring & neuronavigation techniques, which enhance the safety and precision of brain tumor surgeries and other complex neurological interventions.

Who needs neuronavigation & monitoring?

This technique is employed in individuals with the following conditions to help them undergo respective surgeries with high precision rates.

Brain tumor: To rule out the location of the tumor in the brain, aiming to treat with high precision & reduce the risk of damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
Epilepsy: To rule out the areas in the brain responsible for causing seizures, aiming to treat without disturbing other functional areas.
Spinal Surgery: To guide the surgeon while placing any implants by providing the detailed anatomy of the spine to assess the key aspects of spine injury, aiming to prevent damage to the spinal cord or the surrounding nerves while spinal surgery.
Craniofacial surgeries: To understand the anatomy of the skull bone & the areas affected due to trauma for treating those individuals with high precision.

Note: In intraoperative neuromonitoring methods, the electrical activity is being monitored to assess the risk of damage to surrounding tissue during any of the above conditions & make immediate corrections if any are needed.

How is the neuronavigation & intraoperative neuromonitoring technique performed?

The patient may undergo certain tests, such as an MRI, CT scan, or other imaging techniques, such as fMRI or PET scans, prior to the procedure.

Three components make up the neuronavigation system: computer software, an infrared camera, and guiding tools with tracking devices to find the tumors. Initially, in order to align the images from an MRI or other imaging scan with the patient’s actual anatomy, the patient is properly positioned and has a reference frame placed on their head. Additionally, the information gathered from the MRI scan is incorporated into the computer program, producing a real-time, three-dimensional representation of the skull that is shown on the screen and facilitating the surgeon’s ability to quickly locate and remove the abnormal tissue without actually damaging the surrounding healthy tissues.

Additionally, another technique called intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) involves tracking the electrical activity in the specific areas by placing electrodes on the body or brain to guide the brain during spinal surgeries. The common methods of IONM include EMG (electromyography to monitor nerve function), SSEPs, MEPs, and EEG.

Neuronavigating system quick, real-time visualization features aid in identifying any abnormalities in the brain & spinal cord that guide the surgeons with anatomical data loaded in its software to employ the surgeries with high precision. Additionally, it serves as an advanced navigation tool to improve treatment outcomes, lowering the risk of affecting other functional areas or damaging surrounding tissues of the brain or spinal cord.

Benefits of Intraoperative Neuromonitoring & Neuronavigation:

• Navigating to precise locations in the spine and brain is made easier by real-time data.
• Less likelihood of complications like paralysis due to continuous monitoring of brain activity through IONM.
• Minimal or no damage to surrounding tissues of the brain or spine, ensuring high safety.
• Less radiation exposure.
• Minimally invasive with less recovery period.

Explore Precision Care Today—Book Your IONM & Neuronavigation Consultation!