When electrocautery affects EP waveforms, what should be continued to monitor the signals?

When electrocautery is used during a surgical procedure, the electrical interference can significantly impact the reliability and clarity of the evoked potential (EP) waveforms being monitored. Raw (unaveraged) data should be continuously monitored in this scenario because it allows the clinician to observe real-time changes and artifacts, providing a more comprehensive picture of the neurological status during the procedure.

Continuing with raw data provides critical information regarding the presence of any physiological responses despite the interference. Averaging techniques generally help to filter out noise and enhance signal quality, but during periods of electrocautery, these techniques can mask underlying neural activity that could be pivotal for the surgical team. By examining the raw data, clinicians are better positioned to recognize and interpret any significant changes in the EP waveforms that could indicate potential complications or the need for intervention.

Switching to different electrode types or stopping monitoring entirely may compromise the ongoing assessment of neurological function, especially during critical phases of a procedure where real-time feedback is essential for patient safety. Maintaining raw data monitoring ensures that the nuances of the signals can be captured and reviewed, allowing for optimal decision-making in the event of any detected abnormalities during electrocautery.