Evaluation of pedicle screw insertion monitored by intraoperative evoked electromyography

J Spinal Disord. 1996 Feb;9(1):8-16.

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 the 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.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Bone Screws*
  • Electromyography
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Monitoring, Physiologic
  • Spinal Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Spinal Diseases / surgery