Name of the Procedure:

Electroencephalogram with video (VEEG); Review of Data, Technical Description by EEG Technologist, 2-12 hours; Unmonitored

Summary

An Electroencephalogram with video (VEEG) is a diagnostic procedure that records electrical activity in the brain while simultaneously capturing video footage of the patient. This combination helps correlate physical behavior with brain activity. The unmonitored version means that there is no real-time observation by the technologist during the recording, and the data is reviewed afterward.

Purpose

The VEEG is used to diagnose and evaluate neurological conditions, especially seizure disorders. The goal is to identify abnormal brain activity that may correspond with episodes of brain dysfunction, such as seizures, to inform treatment decisions.

Indications

• Unexplained seizures or convulsions
• Episodic events such as fainting or blackouts
• Diagnosing epilepsy and other seizure disorders
• Monitoring brain activity in conditions like sleep disorders or head injuries

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to wash their hair and avoid using gels or sprays on the day of the procedure.
• Certain medications might need to be paused, as per the doctor’s advice.
• Patients are usually asked to sleep less the night before to increase the likelihood of capturing abnormal brain activity.

Procedure Description

1. The patient arrives at the medical facility.
2. The EEG technologist applies small, flat metal discs (electrodes) to the patient's scalp using a special paste.
3. The patient is connected to an EEG recording device that measures and records brain wave patterns.
4. A video camera records the patient's physical behavior during the EEG.
5. The patient is allowed to rest, perform activities, or sleep as instructed by the healthcare provider.
6. The recording lasts between 2-12 hours, capturing brain electrical activity and corresponding physical behavior.
7. The data collected will later be reviewed by an EEG technologist and interpreted by a neurologist.

Duration

The procedure typically lasts between 2 to 12 hours, depending on the specific clinical need.

Setting

The VEEG is usually performed in a hospital or an outpatient clinic equipped for neurological studies.

Personnel

• EEG Technologist (sets up and reviews the recording)
• Neurologist (interprets the results)

Risks and Complications

• Skin irritation or discomfort from the electrodes
• Minor risk of infection at the electrode sites
• Possible discomfort due to prolonged monitoring

Benefits

• Accurate correlation of physical behavior with EEG data
• Enhanced diagnosis of seizure types and other neurological disorders
• Helps in formulating effective treatment plans

Recovery

• The patient can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Any adhesive residue from the electrodes can be cleaned off.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results and treatment plans.

Alternatives

• Standard EEG (without video recording)
• Ambulatory EEG (portable EEG device for home monitoring)
• MRI or CT scans (for structural brain imaging)

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel minor discomfort during electrode application.
• There is no pain associated with the EEG recording itself.
• Patients are allowed to rest comfortably and may be asked to remain still or perform specific tasks during the recording.

Pain management and comfort measures:

• Minimal discomfort managed by repositioning or padding electro-sensitive areas.
• Comfort measures include ensuring a quiet and comfortable environment for the patient.