Question 1

What is IONM?

Accepted Answer

IONM (Intra-Operative Neuro Monitoring) is a battery of neurophysiologic tests used to assess the functional integrity of the spinal cord, nerve roots and other peripheral nervous system structures during spinal surgery. The underlying principle of IONM is to identify emerging harm to nervous system structures, pathways and/or related vascular systems – and to provide feedback regarding possible damage to neural function before irreversible neural injuries can develop. IONM data provides an opportunity for intervention to prevent or minimize postoperative neurologic problems. Current multimodality monitoring techniques permit intraoperative assessment of the functional integrity of afferent dorsal sensory spinal cord tracts, efferent ventral spinal cord motor tracts, and nerve roots. Combined use of these techniques is useful during complex spinal surgery because these monitoring modalities provide important complementary information to the surgical team. IONM is quickly becoming the standard of care in the medical field, and is used extensively throughout the U.S.

Question 2

Why Monitor?

Accepted Answer

Visually identifying spinal nerves during surgery can be difficult in areas with poor visibility, even with a detailed knowledge of anatomy and surgical skill. Intra-operative nerve monitoring is recommended as a risk-minimizing tool to aid in the prevention of neurological problems during procedures where the spinal nerves are at risk.

Question 3

What happens on the day of surgery?

Accepted Answer

On the day of your surgery, you will be greeted by an NDM professional who will explain their role and answer any questions you may have. Once you are in the operating room and under anesthesia, electrodes will be specifically placed – in some instances on your head, arms, hands, legs and feet. These electrodes will be used to monitor vital nervous system data. The data will then be monitored continuously not only by the NDM technician, but also in real time by a physician trained in neurophysiological monitoring. The data will then be used to inform the surgeon as to the state of your nervous system. If significant changes were to arise, the surgeon would be notified for immediate intervention to ensure your safety.

Question 4

What is the cost?

Accepted Answer

Neuro Diagnostic Monitoring (NDM) is an independent provider of IONM. The charges for our services are billed to your insurance provider and, in some instances, to the hospital where your surgery was performed. Patients may receive a statement from our facility regarding the insurance deeming the patient responsibility. (Example: deductible not met, co-insurance, out of pocket not met, etc.)

Question 5

What procedures are covered?

Accepted Answer

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion
Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion
Spinal Cord Tumors
Spinal Cord Untethering
Lumbar Decompression/Microdiscectomy
Lumbar Fusion (Interbody and Pedicle screw)
Rhizotomy
Scoliosis Correction
Carotid Endarterectomy
Chiari Malformation
Thyroidectomy
Parathyroidectomy
Parotidectomy
Acoustic Neuroma
Mastoidectomy
Tympanomastoidectomy
Radical Head and Neck Surgery

FAQ

What is IONM?

Why Monitor?

What happens on the day of surgery?

What is the cost?

What procedures are covered?