To optimally monitor CN VIII function in the OR, what should be performed simultaneously?

The optimal monitoring of the eighth cranial nerve (CN VIII), which is responsible for hearing and balance, involves the use of both brainstem auditory evoked responses (BAERs) and electrocochleography (ECochG) simultaneously. BAERs provide valuable information regarding the integrity of the auditory pathways in the brainstem, allowing for the detection of any disturbances that may happen due to surgical manipulation or injury.

On the other hand, ECochG gives insight into cochlear function and can detect abnormalities that may not be picked up by BAERs alone, such as local site issues within the cochlea or cochlear nerve. Together, these two modalities provide a comprehensive assessment of CN VIII function, helping to identify and prevent potential complications during surgeries that may affect hearing or balance, especially in procedures involving the inner ear and surrounding structures.

The other options, while relevant to intraoperative monitoring, do not specifically target the assessment of CN VIII function in the same complementary manner. Median somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) and compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) primarily evaluate the sensory and motor pathways, respectively, and may not provide specific information on auditory function. SSEPs and BAERs address different neural