My doctor advised that I should have intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring performed during my surgery. I have a pacemaker. Is that an issue?

I am not a doctor, and if you have any concerns about any upcoming medical procedure, you should consult with your doctor. This is particularly true since you have specific concerns about your pacemaker and the procedure that will be performed.

Although I am not a doctor, I am a personal injury attorney who has experience in medical malpractice cases involving intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM). I have helped clients who have been harmed when IONM goes wrong during surgery.

Studies have shown that pacemakers and defibrillators are not at risk for malfunctioning during IONM. However, there is always a concern that because IONM involves electrical impulses, and electrical impulses can interfere with pacemakers and defibrillators, that the patient could be harmed.

IONM has been shown to be beneficial in preventing complications during surgery. If your doctor has recommended IONM, you should at least seriously consider following his or her recommendations. However, some patients have suffered serious harm when IONM was incorrectly performed.

If you believe that you have been harmed during a procedure which was monitored by intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, call me, Conal Doyle, IONM malpractice attorney. I can help. Call today at 310-385-0567 to learn more or to schedule a free consultation on your case.