Neurophysiology Lab
When are EEGs used?
(EEG)Electroencephalography
*epilepsy and other seizure disorders
*brain tumors
*encephalopathy (brain dysfunction)
*dementia
*brain injury
*sleep disorders including apnea
Electroencephalography (EEG): EEG or "brain wave test" is a diagnostic test that measures the electrical activity of the brain in order to detect and evaluate neurological conditions. During the EEG procedure, electrodes are placed on the head to record the electrical activity in the brain, which is interpreted by the doctor. Patients will be asked to breathe deeply, look at a bright, flashing lights or go to sleep in order for the doctor to collect a range of brain activity. Brain activity is produced as a series of wavy lines that are analyzed by the doctor. This test takes about 1 hour to complete.
To prepare for the test, be sure your hair is clean and dry. Do not use any styling products such as hairspray or oil. Also, remove any hair weaves, extensions, braids, or glue before your test. You may also take your regular medications before the test. No caffeine 24 hours prior to the test. You may eat prior to the procedure.
Ambulatory Electroencephalography (EEG)
Video-EEG monitoring:
Sleep deprived EEG
Ambulatory Electroencephalography (EEG):
We also offer ambulatory EEG testing, in which the patient wears the EEG recorder that is slightly larger than a portable cassette player and collets up to 72 hours of brain activity while the patient goes through his or her regular daily activities, permitting examination of brain activity throughout the patient's day. Set up time for this test takes about 60 minutes and is painless. You'll be given a diary in which to record all your activities, any abnormal sensations, or seizures you may experience. Do not touch your head after the equipment has been attached, as it will interfere with the recording. After the testing is complete, you will return to the office to have the equipment removed.
Sleep deprived EEG: this test is similar to a regular EEG, except that you will be asked to have no more than 3 hours of sleep within 24 hours prior to the test. Children under the age of 12 who take this test are asked to remain awake from midnight until the exam time.
Video-EEG monitoring: This procedure requires you to stay in the office for two 12-hour day. This will be from 7a-7p. During the video-EEG monitoring, the patient wears an EEG transmitter connected to the wall outlet by a cable. He or she can move about and carry out normal activities, such as talking, reading, and watching television. Ceiling-mounted video cameras continuously record the patient's behavior. Data generated by this test improves diagnostic certainty and can be very helpful in making treatment decisions, including the choice of the right antiseizure medication.
EMG/NCV
EMG: This is a technique for evaluating and recording the activation signal of the muscles. The EMG part of the test involves the insertion of a very small needle into different muscles. You may experience a slight amount of discomfort as the needle is inserted, but they generally are not painful. You will then be asked to relax and move certain muscles. There are no lasting effects from the test.
EMG and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure and record electrical activity from specific muscles and nerves. This is most often used to assess symptoms of pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. These tests can take a few hours.
EMG and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure and record electrical activity from specific muscles and nerves. This is most often used to assess symptoms of pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. These tests can take a few hours.
NCV: This test is performed first. It involves the use of a series of small electrical shocks to the muscles in specific areas of your arms and legs. Although usually not painful, you may experience a brief tingling sensation during the test. To perform this study, electrodes/stickers are placed on the skin and used to monitor the reaction times the nerve is stimulated by tiny electrical impulses.
To prepare for the EMG/NCV, please observe the following: Bathe or shower on the day of the test. Wash your arms and legs well to remove body oils. Do not use lotions, bath oils, or creams. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. Eat your normal meals and take your regular medications as directed. Bring a list of medications you are taking, especially any blood thinners.