Visual evoked potential monitoring of optic nerve function during surgery. Issue 10 (October 1990)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harding, G F; Bland, J D; Smith, V H
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 53:Issue 10(1990)
• Page Start: 890
• Page End: 895
• Publication Date: 1990-10
• Subjects: Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.53.10.890
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : A study was made with intra-operative flash--visual evoked potentials (VEP) monitored using a fibre-optic/contact lens photo stimulator in 57 patients undergoing intra-orbital surgical procedures with potential risk to the optic nerve. The VEPs recorded under enflurane and nitrous oxide anaesthesia did not differ significantly in latency or amplitude from the pre-operative recordings. Transient abolition of the VEP was seen under many circumstances and did not correlate with the outcome of surgery, but absence of a previously normal VEP for more than four minutes during surgical manipulation within the orbit did show a correlation with post operative impairment of vision. The technique provides early warning to the surgeon of threats to the integrity of the optic nerve.