Medtronic NIM Response 3.0 Nerve Monitor System

Have you ever heard of Electromyography (EMG)? Do you know of the important role EMGs have during surgical procedures? During ENT, skull-based, and head and neck surgical procedures, there are measures in place to avoid deficit or paralysis for those undergoing an operation. EMGs like the Medtronic NIM Response 3.0 nerve monitor offer feedback that is essential for detecting any possible signs of nerve damage during an operation.

Continue reading to learn more about what this state-of-the-art NIM Response 3.0 nerve monitoring system can offer.

WHAT IS ELECTROMYOGRAPHY USED FOR?

Also called a myogram, electromyography is a technique used during surgery to monitor the condition of a patient’s nervous system throughout the surgical procedure. EMGs can reveal nerve dysfunction, muscle dysfunction, or problems with nerve-to-muscle signal transmission. Motor neurons transmit electrical signals that cause muscles to contract. EMG then uses tiny devices called electrodes to translate these signals into graphs, sounds, or numerical values that are then interpreted by a specialist.

ELECTROMYOGRAPHY DIAGNOSIS

EMGs are often necessary to help diagnose or rule out several conditions such as:

• Muscle disorders, such as muscular dystrophy or polymyositis
• Diseases affecting the connection between the nerve and the muscle, such as myasthenia gravis
• Disorders of nerves outside the spinal cord (peripheral nerves), such as carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathies
• Diseases that affect the motor neurons in the brain or spinal cord, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or polio
• Disorders that affect the nerve root, such as a herniated disk in the spine

INTRODUCTION TO THE MEDTRONIC NIM-RESPONSE 3.0 NERVE MONITOR

Based on more than 20 years of experience, the NIM-Response 3.0 offers advanced nerve monitoring technology with an easy-to-use interface. The NIM system can effectively provide audible and visual information to any sudden changes in nerve functions. Furthermore, the provided feedback can help detect early warning signs of nerve damage which can help reduce risks.

MEDTRONIC NIM RESPONSE 3.0 FEATURES

The electromyographic NIM 3.0 system by Medtronic can monitor up to four channels of nerve-muscle combinations at a time. This EMG monitor also features an intuitive touchscreen, three simple user modes, and default or custom settings along with:

• Monitoring during bipolar cautery
• Artifact detection software to reduce noise
• Integrated Stim Bur Guard that combines Visao Otologic Drill with stimulation
• Real-time continuous monitoring with the APS Electrode
• Monitoring control from within the surgical field
• Multiple USB ports for easy documentation of data
• Frequently used in ENT surgery, head and neck procedures

HOW DOES THE MEDTRONIC NIM-RESPONSE 3 WORK?

First, the nerve monitoring electrodes are placed in the appropriate muscle locations, along the nerve pathway, for the surgical procedure being performed. Color-coded placement guides are included in the NIM software. These electrodes are connected to the NIM Monitoring System, which continuously analyzes EMG activity from muscles innervated by the affected nerve. Next, an electrode will stimulate the nerve with an electrical impulse which the NIM System warns the surgeon and operating room staff. The color touchscreen monitor provides both visual alerts and audio feedback to help minimize trauma to the nerve.

Surgeons can use monopolar and bipolar stimulating probes and dissection instruments with the NIM-Response 3.0 system to assess any nerve activity, nerve identification, and confirmation. If the signal becomes slower and weaker, this reveals a problem with the nerve. Therefore, changes in signal response allow surgeons to quickly identify a problem and take corrective actions.

REFURBISHED NIM-RESPONSE 3.0

Soma Tech Intl refurbishes the NIM-Response 3.0 back to Medtronic’s specifications. Every EMG is inspected, cleaned, and tested upon arriving at their facility. If needed, their in-house bioengineers make the necessary replacements and calibrate the unit. Once the unit is in its prime shape, it undergoes special cosmetic restoration where it is sanded and repainted. If the EMG monitor needs new decals, they replace those as well, making the unit look as it did when it left the original manufacturer.

REQUESTING THE NIM-RESPONSE 3.0 NERVE MONITOR

Furthermore, if you would like to request the NIM-Response 3.0 or any other electromyographic monitor, you can contact Soma at 1.800.GET.SOMA or send an email to [email protected]. One of their knowledgeable sales representatives can assist you with any further inquiries. Soma offers refurbished medical equipment up to 50% below OEM prices with the same service and warranty as new. The savings can ensure a lasting value on your investment.

FINAL THOUGHTS

In summary, motor nerves can be difficult to identify during surgery due to disease, a previous operation, or anatomical variations, even with a detailed knowledge of anatomy and surgical skills. With strives in bioengineering and major improvements in medical technology, surgeons can perform critical procedures while preserving nerve function and improving patient safety with the support of an electromyographic monitor. In particular, EMGs like the NIM-Response 3.0 offer sophisticated hardware electronics and intuitive software.

Have you used the Medtronic NIM-Response 3.0 nerve monitoring system before? Which EMG system do you utilize for intraoperative use? Was this article informative? Let us know what your thoughts are by leaving a comment below.