Intraoperative Neuromonitoring

Istanbul

Intraoperative Neuromonitoring in Istanbul is available at 2 hospitals in the Voumed network.

Intraoperative neuromonitoring is a technology that continuously checks the function of nerves and the spinal cord while brain and spine surgery is being performed. Small sensors record the electrical activity that travels along the nerves, so the surgical team gets a live warning the moment a sensitive nerve is at risk, before any lasting damage occurs. This early warning lets the surgeon adjust technique in real time and is used to help protect movement, sensation, hearing and other vital functions. It is a key safety tool in operations close to the brain, spinal cord and critical nerves.

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At a glance

Type: real-time monitoring of nerve and spinal-cord function during surgery
Used for: brain, spine, ENT and thyroid operations near critical nerves
Key benefit: early warning that helps prevent nerve injury and paralysis
When it is used: throughout the operation, alongside the surgical procedure
Where it is used: leading accredited surgical centres abroad

What it is

Neuromonitoring is a system of sensors, electrodes and recording equipment used during surgery to watch how nerves and the spinal cord are working from moment to moment. Electrodes are placed on the scalp, face, limbs or muscles supplied by the nerves at risk, and the equipment measures the signals that pass between the brain and the body. A specialist follows these signals on screen throughout the operation. In effect, it gives the surgical team a continuous report on nerve health, turning an otherwise invisible risk into clear, actionable information while there is still time to respond.

How it works

Before surgery begins, the electrodes are positioned and a baseline reading is taken for each nerve pathway being watched. During the operation, the system constantly compares the live signals with that baseline. If a signal weakens or changes, for example when an instrument comes close to a nerve or the spinal cord, the team is alerted immediately and the surgeon can pause, adjust the approach or move away from the sensitive structure before injury occurs. Different techniques can monitor motor nerves, sensory nerves and specific nerves such as those for the face or hearing, depending on the operation.

What it treats and who it helps

Neuromonitoring supports surgery rather than treating a disease itself. It is used in brain surgery, including aneurysm and brain tumour operations, in spinal surgery such as spinal tumour removal and correction of scoliosis, and in selected ENT and thyroid operations where nerves controlling the face, voice or hearing are nearby. It is especially valuable for any procedure where a critical nerve or the spinal cord must be worked around, helping reduce the risk of paralysis, facial weakness, hearing loss or voice changes. The surgical team decides when monitoring is appropriate based on the planned operation.

Benefits and what to expect

The main benefit is added safety: by detecting changes in nerve function early, neuromonitoring helps the surgeon avoid injury and protect functions such as movement, sensation, hearing and speech. This can give greater confidence to operate thoroughly in delicate areas while lowering the risk of lasting deficits. For the patient, the monitoring takes place while under general anaesthesia and adds no separate procedure; the electrodes are simply placed before surgery and removed afterwards. The care team explains the overall operation, recovery and follow-up as part of the surgical plan.

Frequently asked questions

These answers are general guidance and may vary by provider. Confirm the details with the hospital you choose.

What does neuromonitoring do during my surgery?

It continuously checks how your nerves and spinal cord are working and warns the surgeon the moment a nerve is at risk, so action can be taken before any lasting injury, helping to protect movement, sensation, hearing and speech.

Is it a separate procedure I need to prepare for?

No. The electrodes are placed once you are under anaesthesia and removed at the end of the operation. There is no separate appointment or special preparation beyond the usual preparation for your surgery.

Does it hurt?

No. The sensors are applied while you are asleep under general anaesthesia, so you feel nothing. They are gently placed on the skin or muscles and removed once the operation is finished.

Which operations use neuromonitoring?

It is used in brain and spine surgery, including aneurysm, brain and spinal tumour and scoliosis operations, and in selected ENT and thyroid surgery where important nerves are close to the surgical area.

Does neuromonitoring guarantee no nerve damage?

It significantly improves safety by giving early warning, but no technology can remove all risk. It is one important safeguard among several the team uses to protect your nerve function.