What criteria should prompt a surgeon notification when monitoring BAERs during surgery?

The criteria that should prompt a surgeon notification when monitoring Brainstem Auditory Evoked Responses (BAERs) during surgery revolves primarily around significant changes in waveform characteristics that may indicate neural compromise. An increase in latency of wave V of more than 1.0 ms, or the disappearance of wave V, serves as a crucial indicator of potential neuronal injury or compromised auditory pathways.

Wave V represents the late component of the BAERs and is typically seen as a landmark in the assessment of auditory function. Monitoring changes in latency provides insights into the integrity of the auditory pathway during surgical procedures that may affect brainstem function or anatomical structures involved in hearing. An increase beyond 1.0 ms signifies a more substantial and potentially harmful alteration, prompting immediate surgical evaluation to address any developing issues. The disappearance of wave V suggests a critical disruption in the pathway, indicating the need for urgent intervention.

This rationale emphasizes the importance of timely communication to the surgical team if these specific critical parameters are observed, as they may necessitate changes in surgical technique or prompt further investigation to prevent permanent auditory damage.