What is an appropriate filter range for a short-latency SSEP cortical response?

The appropriate filter range for a short-latency somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP) cortical response is essential for accurately capturing the neural activity associated with sensory processing. In this context, selecting a range that allows for the proper representation of the SSEP waveform is crucial.

The chosen filter range of 10-3000 Hz is particularly suited for short-latency SSEPs as it enables the recording of high-frequency activity, which can include important components of the cortical response that occur shortly after the stimulus. This broader range captures both the low-frequency potentials that are relevant for the slower components of the SSEP and the higher frequency components that may be associated with rapid cortical processing.

In clinical practice, extending beyond the lower limits of traditional filtering allows for preservation of critical information that may be present in the high-frequency components. This is important for monitoring during surgery, where real-time detection of changes in neural function can inform the surgical team.

Other suggested filter ranges may not adequately capture these components, either excluding essential high-frequency information needed for reliable interpretation or offering a too-narrow window that limits the response representation. Therefore, using the 10-3000 Hz filter ensures that a clinician can effectively monitor and analyze the short-latency cortical responses