New to IONM

Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) is a technique that aims to minimize, reverse, or prevent neurological injury during operative manipulations. The goal of such monitoring is to identify changes in brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerve function prior to irreversible damage. Intraoperative monitoring has also been effective in localizing anatomical structures such as nerve roots, peripheral nerves, and sensorimotor cortex, helping to guide the surgeon during the procedure.

IONM has evolved greatly since its inception in the 1970s. It utilizes both neural stimulation and recording of electrical signals from the nervous system during surgical operations. This provides an opportunity to detect, prevent, and reverse neurologic injuries before they become severe enough to cause permanent deficits. The introduction of IONM has reduced the risk of debilitating deficits such as muscle weakness, paralysis, and hearing loss.

IONM is typically performed by a Neuromonitoring Technologist under the supervision of an Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Professional, such as a Neurophysiologist, Neurologist, or other qualified professional. Many IONM tests are now used in various surgical specialties to help guide the surgeon during the procedure in order to obtain the best possible outcome. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us or one of our board members.

ASNM is not affiliated with, nor does it endorse, any specific IONM-program, but the following link to The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) website may be helpful in your search for schools that offer IONM training and education.  The programs are listed under Neurodiagnostic Technology.

http://www.caahep.org/Students/Find-a-Program.aspx