Evaluation of pedicle screw insertion monitored by intraoperative evoked electromyography

Bruce V. Darden, Kenneth E. Wood, Martha K. Hatley, Jeffrey H. Owen, John Kostuik

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The insertion of pedicle screws monitored by evoked electromyography (EMG) was prospectively evaluated in the 132 consecutive patients. The technique involved constant-voltage stimulation and was statistically evaluated at both the arbitrary 20- and 40-V settings. The patients were postoperatively evaluated clinically and radiographically. Computed tomography (CT) scanning was performed for new neurologic deficits. Results were divided into three groups: type 1, a negative EMG response; type 2, a positive EMG response, but no corrective action taken; and type 3, a positive EMG response and corrective action undertaken. Nonparametric statistics were used to evaluate the results at both the 20- and 40-V settings. In the type 3 group, in which corrective action was undertaken, there were no neurologic injuries or screw removals, a statistically significant result. Looking at the two intensity levels, at 20- and 40-V settings, there were no statistically significant differences in the three classifications at either intensity level. We concluded that evoked EMG for monitoring pedicle screw insertion is an efficacious adjunct. A positive response at <20 V with the constant-voltage technique warrants corrective action.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)8-16
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of spinal disorders
Volume9
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 1996

Keywords

  • Evoked electromyography
  • Pedicle screws

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Clinical Neurology

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