Intraoperative monitoring of facial nerve during large acoustic neuroma surgery

Objective To illustrate some recent advances in intraoperative monitoring of the facial nerve during large acoustic neuroma surgery. Method Direct recording of facial electromyography(EMG) and brainstem auditory evoked potential (BAEP) were done in 16 patients. Result Total tumor removal was 100% with no dead patient dying. Facial nerve was preserved in 94% cases. Good initial facial nerve outcome(mHB degree≥ II) was found in 81% cases with proximal stimulation threshold less than 0. 4 mA. Conclusion Intraoperative monitoring of cramal furnishes a valid tool for identification of neural structures, prevention of damage, understanding of the pathophysiololgy of damage, and prediction of postoperative function.