Foot control in the operating room: precise and safe operation of neurophysiological monitoring devices

Foot controls are used in the operating room for the operation of neurophysiological monitoring devices to enable the surgeon to control these devices efficiently and precisely during a neurosurgical operation. These monitoring devices play a crucial role in monitoring and protecting the function of the patient's nervous system during surgery.

Patient safety can thus be increased, particularly during operations on the brain or spinal cord, for example. Tumours that were previously inoperable can now be monitored, with specially developed electrodes used for electrical stimulation. This activates nerve connections and measures the electrical potentials, allowing surgeons to react immediately to changes and adapt their procedure. This significantly reduces the risk of damage to motor functions, for example.

A foot switch can be used to trigger the electrical nerve stimulation at the desired time. This ensures precise synchronization between the recorded signals and the applied stimuli.

Reasons for using foot switches on neurophysiological monitoring devices

Freedom of movement: Surgeons need their hands in the operating theatre for the actual procedure. Foot controls allow them to control the neurophysiological monitoring devices without having to interrupt the surgery.

Precision: Footswitches offer precise control, allowing signals to be activated or deactivated as required and other important settings to be made in order to apply electrical stimuli with pinpoint accuracy.

Real-time monitoring: Monitoring the nervous system usually requires a real-time response. Footswitches allow surgeons to respond immediately to changes in neurophysiologic signals without resorting to manual controls.

Reducing the risk of infection: The use of foot controls can also help reduce the risk of infection because by operating with the foot, contact with contaminated surfaces is minimised.

Foot switches with medical approval from Herga

The diverse Herga range includes foot controls that are ideal for use in operating theatres. For example, the 6226 medically approved footswitch. Thanks to its low height, the lightweight and robust plastic footswitch enables comfortable and fatigue-free switching.

Overall, foot controls help to improve the efficiency, precision and safety of neurosurgical procedures by allowing the surgeon to seamlessly integrate neurophysiological monitoring of the patient into the surgical procedure.

Do you have any questions or need individual advice? Then please contact our experts. You can reach them by phone or e-mail. We look forward to your enquiry.