The Neurodiagnostic Journal最新文献

Current shunting is a potential cause of false negative threshold values whenever triggered EMG is utilized. We present a case where we stimulated percutaneously placed pedicle screws both with and without an insulated dilator to show the potential difference in threshold values. Our findings suggest that the risk of current shunting associated false negatives when stimulating pedicle screws placed via minimally invasive percutaneous approaches may be higher unless insulated dilators are utilized.

Deciding whether an epilepsy is of focal or generalized origin is necessary for establishing treatment options. Sometimes it is not a clear diagnosis. It is important to consider patient history, EEG presentation, clinical semiology, and imaging with these decisions. Presented is a case study of a patient with presumed generalized epilepsy but with focal features. A diagnostic evaluation was performed to ultimately decide if her epilepsy was focal or generalized, and whether she could be a surgical candidate for resection.

Brain-computer interface (BCI) is a term used to describe systems that translate biological information into commands that can control external devices such as computers, prosthetics, and other machinery. While BCI is used in military applications, home control systems, and a wide array of entertainment, much of its modern interest and funding can be attributed to its utility in the medical community, where it has rapidly propelled advancements in the restoration or replacement of critical functions robbed from victims of disease, stroke, and traumatic injury. BCI devices can allow patients to move prosthetic limbs, operate devices such as wheelchairs or computers, and communicate through writing and speech-generating devices. In this article, we aim to provide an introductory summary of the historical context and modern growing utility of BCI, with specific interest in igniting the conversation of where and how the neurodiagnostics community and its associated parties can embrace and contribute to the world of BCI.

A craniotomy with cortical and subcortical mapping was planned for a 64-year-old male with a large right frontotemporal brain mass. Total intravenous anesthesia was performed, and 200 milligrams of succinylcholine was administered at induction. A train of four prior to head pinning (52 minutes after succinylcholine administration) revealed zero of four twitches in the left hand and foot. The patient did not regain spontaneous breathing despite discontinuation of infusions and the surgeon canceled the case at 108 minutes from induction. The patient was safely extubated at 270 minutes. Pseudocholinesterase deficiency was suspected, and labs revealed that the patient was outside of the normal range for pseudocholinesterase enzyme at 698 units/L with a dibucaine inhibition number of 40. The patient's procedure was rescheduled 2 days later, and neuromuscular blockade was avoided. The procedure went ahead as planned with successful mapping and monitoring. This case highlights the effect of pseudocholinesterase deficiency on neuromonitoring and the importance of running train of four early on to detect neuromuscular junction issues in high-risk procedures. In this case, the surgeon was able to avoid pinning and positioning the patient and rescheduled the procedure so that motor mapping, direct cortical motor evoked potentials, and transcranial motor evoked potentials could be successfully performed.

When faced with challenging behaviors from pediatric patients, technologists can often feel unprepared. This can lead to poor appointment outcomes as well as unintended traumatic experiences for patients. It is important to understand the role the technologist plays in providing high-quality care that addresses behavioral concerns while minimizing trauma; however, training and education in this area of patient care is limited in the field of neurodiagnostics. This lack of training and education can deter technologists from working with the pediatric population. This article aims to address core reasons for displayed behaviors in pediatric patients as well as the risks associated with not addressing the behaviors during EEG lead placements. In an effort to continue striving for high-quality, family-centered care in the field of pediatric neurodiagnostics, proposed interventions such as the CARE process and distraction are outlined and discussed.