Transient and reproducible loss of motor-evoked potential signals after intravenous levetiracetam in a child undergoing craniotomy for resection of astrocytoma

Transcranial electrical motor-evoked potential (tceMEP) monitoring is used in complex intracranial and spinal surgeries to detect and prevent neurological injury. We present a case of transient, reproducible loss of tceMEPs after an infusion of levetiracetam during craniotomy and tumor resection in a child. Cessation of the infusion resulted in restoration of baseline tceMEPs. When the infusion was resumed at the end of the procedure, a similar decrease in tceMEPs was seen as before, after the infusion was stopped. The surgery and postoperative course proceeded without incident, and the patient experienced a full recovery.