Localizing Tumor Using tEMG During Schwannoma Resection
By Admin | August 17, 2023
In the realm of medical challenges, schwannomas stand as a unique adversary. These rare tumors develop from cells within the peripheral nervous system and can exert pressure on peripheral nerves, potentially leading to a range of sensory and motor symptoms. When the need arises, surgical intervention becomes paramount, demanding a meticulous approach to minimize risks. Enter neuromonitoring – a crucial ally that ensures the functional integrity of peripheral nerves during these intricate procedures.
Meet our 53-year-old male patient, grappling with a right median nerve schwannoma. Plagued by numbness, tingling in the right arm, and persistent pain radiating to his chest, his daily life is marred by discomfort.
In the pursuit of surgical precision, the medical team orchestrated a symphony of neuromonitoring techniques. To safeguard sensory pathways the team enlisted somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs). Real-time assessment of motor function was achieved through the tandem efforts of spontaneous (sEMG) and triggered electromyography (tEMG) and tEMG was used to play the extensive role of differentiating nervous tissue from non-nervous tissue. This technique proved invaluable in pinpointing the exact location of the tumor and meticulously mapping adjacent nerves, including the radial, median, and ulnar nerves.
The combined capabilities of the surgical procedure with a skilled surgical team helped identify various branches of peripheral nerves. This innovative approach helped determine the specific nerve in focus and ensured uninterrupted conduction across the tumor site. Such navigational precision speaks volumes about the fusion of medical expertise and neuromonitoring's real-time insights.
In this case, tEMG's pivotal role cannot be overstated. By distinguishing nervous tissue from the tumor, tEMG guided the surgeon's actions, enabling the removal of as much of the tumor as possible while preserving the surrounding peripheral nerves. This surgical dance, guided by neuromonitoring, minimized the risk of nerve damage and exemplified the transformative potential of technology.
Beyond the tactical prowess of tEMG, SSEPs provided a crucial layer of assurance. By continually assessing the integrity of peripheral nerve sensory pathways, SSEPs ensured that the patient's sensory functions remained intact throughout the procedure.
This case underlines the indispensable role of neuromonitoring, particularly tEMG, in safeguarding patient well-being. The fusion of medical expertise and cutting-edge technology fosters an environment where surgical precision and patient safety converge.
Schwannoma resection journeys are no longer embarked upon blindly. Neuromonitoring emerges as a guiding light, ensuring that every move taken is a step towards patient well-being. At Axis Neuromonitoring, our unwavering commitment to high-quality intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) resonates in every success story. To delve deeper into the transformative benefits of neuromonitoring and its profound impact on surgical outcomes, please connect with us at 888-344-2947.
