Accelerometry to quantify frequency-dependence of surgical energy-induced neuromuscular stimulation

Neuromuscular stimulation (“NMS”) is frequently caused by application of various types of energy (radiofrequency, ultrasonic, or even mechanical) during surgical procedures. Neuromuscular blocking drugs do not always provide complete paralysis, resulting in potentially dangerous muscle stimulation events. In the case of radiofrequency energy, modification of the spectral content may serve to minimize NMS. This paper reviews the causes of energy-induced NMS and presents an accelerometry-based circuit and system for quantifying NMS in situ.