Biophysiologic Monitoring for the Neurosurgical Patient

Biophysiologic monitoring exists as a method of collecting objective information about the neurosurgical patient throughout their treatment and recovery process. Such data is crucial for an improved understanding of the disease processes while providing the surgeon additional clarity as they decipher the next best steps in decision-making and medical recommendations. In the current review article, the authors discuss the commonly used wearable and placeable monitoring devices and the biophysiological data that can be collected to monitor, as well as, assess the neurosurgical patient. Special focus is placed on invasive and non-invasive neurologic monitoring devices, but important and commonly used monitors for the rest of the body are also discussed as they relate to the neurosurgical patient. Last, the authors review new, as well as, upcoming devices and measurements to better analyze the neurosurgical patient’s bodily function and physiologic status as needed. The synthesis of methods contained herein may provide meaningful guidance for neurosurgeons in effectively monitoring and treating their patients while also helping to guide their future efforts in patient biophysiologic monitoring developments within neurosurgery.