Intraoperative Neuromonitoring for Breast Cancer Surgery

This trial explores a new technique during breast cancer surgery to identify nerves that may cause post-surgery pain. Researchers aim to determine if a special monitoring method, known as the IONM procedure (Intraoperative Neuromonitoring), can detect these nerves early, potentially reducing pain after surgery. The trial targets breast cancer patients requiring a specific surgery called axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) who have not undergone previous surgery or radiation affecting nerves.

As an unphased trial, this study allows patients to contribute to innovative research that could enhance surgical outcomes and reduce pain for future patients.

If you are taking medications known to modify neuropathic pain, such as gabapentin, pregabalin, or opioids, you will need to stop taking them to participate in this trial.

Research has shown that intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) is generally safe and well-tolerated in many surgeries. IONM uses small sensors to monitor nerve activity, helping to prevent nerve damage during surgery. It has improved safety in other surgeries by reducing the risk of nerve injury. Although specific data on using IONM during axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in breast cancer is limited, its safety in similar surgeries suggests it is likely well-tolerated.

Researchers are excited about the trial using Intraoperative Neuromonitoring (IONM) for breast cancer surgery because it offers a novel approach to enhancing surgical safety. Unlike standard care options, which don't typically involve real-time nerve monitoring, IONM continuously tracks the function of specific nerves, like the median and ulnar nerves, during surgery. This method aims to prevent nerve damage by providing immediate feedback to surgeons, allowing for adjustments to be made on the spot. Additionally, this trial is breaking new ground by attempting to monitor the intercostobrachial and medial brachial cutaneous nerves, which have never been monitored before. The hope is that this could lead to fewer complications and improved recovery for patients undergoing breast cancer surgery.

Research has shown that intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) can enhance surgical safety by helping surgeons avoid damaging critical nerves. This trial will examine the use of IONM during breast cancer surgery, specifically during axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), to determine if it can reduce postoperative pain. Techniques from other nerve monitoring have successfully identified and protected nerves, suggesting similar benefits might occur in breast cancer surgery. The goal is to detect nerve issues early during surgery, potentially lowering the risk of nerve-related pain afterward. Early studies in other surgeries have shown promising results, indicating that IONM might improve outcomes by protecting nerve function.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰