ABSTRACT
Objective To explore the value of somatosensory cortex evoked potential(CSEP)monitoring in objective evaluation of spinal cord function and integrity as well as prognostication of neural function after surgery.Methods CSEP monitoring was performed before the operation,during surgical procedure and after the operation in 56 spinal cord surgery patients to observe and analyze latency and amplitude of cortical potential.The significant changes were amplitude reduction≥150%or latency prolongation≥10%.Results There were 71.43%(40/56)true negative finding,both latency and amplitude without abnormal changes during the operation and without new neural functional deficit after operation.There was 0.18%(1/56)false negative finding,latency and amplitude without abnormal changes during surgical procedure,but with new neural functional deficit after operation.There were 26.79%(15/56)true positive findings,where latency transient prolongation<10%and amplitude reduction<50%during surgical procedure were observed.After suspending procedure or changing direction during surgical procedure,the waveform restored or improved.Conclusion CSEP monitoring during surgical procedure could reflect the sensitiveness to distracting,ischemia and injury of spinal cord.A timely intervention might improve the CSEP.CSEP could reflect the function and integrity of spinal cord.CSEP possess an important value in preventing spinal cord injury and evaluating the prognosis of neural function.