Intraoperative neuromonitoring techniques in the surgical management of acoustic neuromas

Neurosurg Focus. 2012 Sep;33(3):E6. doi: 10.3171/2012.6.FOCUS12194.

Abstract

Unfavorable outcomes such as facial paralysis and deafness were once unfortunate probable complications following resection of acoustic neuromas. However, the implementation of intraoperative neuromonitoring during acoustic neuroma surgery has demonstrated placing more emphasis on quality of life and preserving neurological function. A modern review demonstrates a great degree of recent success in this regard. In facial nerve monitoring, the use of modern electromyography along with improvements in microneurosurgery has significantly improved preservation. Recent studies have evaluated the use of video monitoring as an adjunctive tool to further improve outcomes for patients undergoing surgery. Vestibulocochlear nerve monitoring has also been extensively studied, with the most popular techniques including brainstem auditory evoked potential monitoring, electrocochleography, and direct compound nerve action potential monitoring. Among them, direct recording remains the most promising and preferred monitoring method for functional acoustic preservation. However, when compared with postoperative facial nerve function, the hearing preservation is only maintained at a lower rate. Here, the authors analyze the major intraoperative neuromonitoring techniques available for acoustic neuroma resection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Audiometry, Evoked Response
  • Electric Stimulation
  • Electromyography
  • Evoked Potentials, Auditory, Brain Stem / physiology
  • Facial Nerve / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Monitoring, Intraoperative / methods*
  • Neuroma, Acoustic / physiopathology*
  • Neuroma, Acoustic / surgery*
  • Peripheral Nerves / physiopathology*
  • Postoperative Complications / physiopathology*
  • Vestibulocochlear Nerve