Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring

What Is IONM?

Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) refers to a group of techniques used to monitor the function of the brain, spinal cord, cranial nerves, and peripheral nerves in real-time during surgery. It helps our surgical team identify any changes in neural function immediately—allowing timely adjustments to prevent potential neurological injuries.

By using IONM, our surgeons are guided by real-time feedback, ensuring maximum protection for delicate neural structures and improving long-term patient outcomes.

Why Ruby Hospital Uses IONM

At Ruby Hospital Kampala, IONM is integrated into many of our advanced procedures to:

• Prevent nerve or spinal cord injuries during complex surgeries

• Ensure patient safety during high-risk neurosurgical or orthopedic operations

• Improve accuracy in tumor removal and spine correction

• Support better postoperative recovery with fewer complications

When Is IONM Used?

IONM is especially valuable during:

• Spine surgeries (e.g., scoliosis correction, spinal decompression, tumor removal)

• Brain and brainstem surgeries

• Cerebrovascular procedures (e.g., aneurysm clipping, AVM repair)

• Peripheral nerve surgeries

• Thyroid, parotid, and skull base surgeries

• Pituitary, optic nerve, and auditory nerve procedures

Types of Monitoring Techniques We Use

Ruby Hospital employs multimodal IONM, combining several methods to provide a full view of your nervous system during surgery:

• Somatosensory Evoked Potentials (SSEP) – Tracks signals from nerves to the brain to detect sensory pathway integrity.

• Motor Evoked Potentials (MEP) – Monitors motor pathways to ensure muscle function is preserved.

• Electromyography (EMG) – Evaluates cranial and peripheral nerve activity to prevent damage during delicate procedures.

• Electroencephalography (EEG) – Assesses brain activity and helps guide brain surgeries or monitor depth of anesthesia.

• Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials (BAEP) – Used in surgeries near the auditory or facial nerves.

• Visual Evoked Potentials (VEP) – Protects visual pathways during eye and brain surgeries.

A Collaborative Approach to Safety

Our IONM services are delivered by a specialized neurophysiology team working closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and operating room staff. This coordinated approach ensures:

• Early detection of potential nerve or brain stress

• Instant alerts to the surgical team if adjustments are needed

• A safer surgical journey and quicker recovery for the patient

Benefits of IONM at Ruby Hospital

• Real-time neurological protection

• Greater precision during complex procedures

• Reduced risk of permanent nerve damage

• Improved surgical outcomes and patient safety

Advanced Technology. Expert Care. Trusted Results.

Ruby Hospital Kampala is among the few centers in the region offering real-time intraoperative neuromonitoring. Whether it’s a spinal correction, tumor resection, or delicate cranial surgery, our IONM-equipped operating theaters ensure every decision is backed by data and precision.

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To learn more or book a consultation with our surgical team, call our Toll-Free Line 0800 388111 or WhatsApp +256 759 922444.
We’re here to make every surgery safer, smarter, and more successful.