ABSTRACT
Objective:To evaluate the efficacy of somatosensory evoked potential (SEP) monitoring for prevention of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in lower extremity of patients undergoing spinal surgery.Methods:A total of 120 patients of both sexes, aged 40-70 yr, of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status ⅠorⅡ, without impairment of coagulation function, undergoing posterior lumbar interbody fusion, were selected and divided into 3 groups ( n=40 each) using the random number table method and envelope method: basic preventive measure group (group A), compression stocking group (group B) and SEP monitoring group (group C). In group B, elastic stockings were worn at 1 h before surgery.SEP monitoring was performed during surgery, and the intensity of current stimulation was 25 mA in group C. The flow velocity of popliteal vein in both lower extremities was measured using color Doppler ultrasound apparatus during surgery.Venous blood samples were taken to measure plasma D-dimer concentrations at 1 day before surgery, at the end of surgery and at 24 h after surgery.The DVT developed in lower extremities was diagnosed by ultrasound method during surgery and within 24 h after surgery. Results:Compared with A and B groups, the blood flow velocity of popliteal vein was significantly increased, and the plasma D-dimer concentration and incidence of DVT developed in lower extremity during surgery were decreased in group C ( P<0.05). Conclusion:SEP monitoring can effectively prevent the occurrence of DVT in lower extremity while it is used as an electrophysiological monitoring of the spinal cord in patients undergoing spinal surgery.