Which statement is true regarding the effect of ketamine on SSEPs and MEPs?

Ketamine is known for its properties as an NMDA receptor antagonist, which can influence both sensory and motor pathways during intraoperative monitoring. Specifically, ketamine tends to enhance the amplitude of somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) as well as motor evoked potentials (MEPs) under certain circumstances.

When administering ketamine, there can be an augmentation of the neural responses recorded in SSEPs, potentially due to its analgesic and anesthetic effects that may lead to increased neuronal excitability and reduced inhibition within sensory pathways. Similarly, MEPs can also show increased amplitude or improved signals, reflecting enhanced motor cortical excitability.

Understanding the pharmacological effects of ketamine helps in the context of neurophysiological monitoring during surgery. The ability of ketamine to enhance both SSEPs and MEPs makes it a useful anesthetic in procedures where maintaining neurologic function is crucial, providing clearer neurophysiological responses during monitoring.

In contrast to the other options, which imply suppression, a lack of effect, or contraindication, choice C accurately reflects the potential positive impact on both evoked potential types, reinforcing the importance of comprehending how anesthetic agents affect intraoperative neuromonitoring strategies.