Perception of Neurologists on Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring in Saudi Arabia

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery
• Medical Monitoring

Background:

• Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) minimizes neurological injury and postoperative complications.
• IONM's importance in Gulf and Arab countries remains under-evaluated.
• This study assesses neurologists' perspectives on IONM in Saudi Arabia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the perceived importance of IONM among neurologists in Saudi Arabia.
• To evaluate the current status and future potential of IONM implementation in the region.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving face-to-face interviews with 72 adult neurology consultants in Saudi Arabia.
• Data collected via a 20-item self-administered questionnaire from January to June 2022.
• Participants' experience, workplace, and training in IONM were assessed.

Main Results:

• Most participants had 10-20 years of experience and worked in tertiary centers.
• Only 31.9% of neurologists were certified in IONM.
• Nearly 60% of institutions lacked an IONM setup, yet most neurologists supported its inclusion in training and considered it mandatory.

Conclusions:

• Neurologists in Saudi Arabia hold a promising perception of IONM.
• Secondary and tertiary care centers show encouraging readiness for IONM implementation.
• Mandatory education, training, implementation, and regulations for IONM are recommended to prevent operative complications.