Bite Block

A bite block reduces the risk of lacerating the tongue, lips, cheeks, breaking any teeth or complications with the endotracheal tube from jaw movement/clenching resulting from motor evoked potential stimulation at the head. Approximately six four by four pieces of gauze are used to manually roll into a cigar shaped object that is secured with tape and placed bilaterally at and in between the molars. A check for proper placement is if the patient's head follows with micro-movements of the bite-block. Then you can have confidence that it is in good position.

Billateral placement of bite-blocks, seated within the molars. so that when the head follows with micro-movement of each bite-block. This takes approximately 6-8 sheets of 4 x 4 gauze rolled up tightly and secured with tape.