ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the equipment and techniques available for monitoring the brain and spinal cord for trauma and critical care. A detailed neurological examination is still the gold standard to evaluate brain and spinal cord function. Traditional examination includes assessment of the level of consciousness, pupillary response, motor function, sensory function, and cranial nerves (1). In many instances, such basic clinical neurological assessments guide surgical interventions and other important clinical decisions. However, sedatives, muscle relaxants, as well as existing neuropathology or acute trauma conditions may significantly impair the sensitivity or even the ability to perform a standard neurological examination.
