Name of the Procedure:

Electroencephalogram with video (VEEG), review of data, technical description by EEG technologist, 2-12 hours; with continuous, real-time monitoring and maintenance

Summary

An Electroencephalogram with video (VEEG) is a procedure that records the electrical activity of the brain using electrodes attached to the scalp while simultaneously capturing video footage. The procedure typically lasts between 2 to 12 hours and includes continuous, real-time monitoring and data review by an EEG technologist.

Purpose

The VEEG is used to diagnose and monitor disorders that affect brain function, such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, and other neurological conditions. The primary goals are to identify abnormal brain activity, correlate these findings with physical behaviors, and guide effective treatment plans.

Indications

• Unexplained seizures or epileptic episodes
• Unusual behavioral changes suspected to be related to brain dysfunction
• Sleep disorders
• Unexplained episodes of confusion or memory loss
• Conditions where a detailed understanding of brain activity is essential

Preparation

• Patients are often asked to wash their hair and avoid using styling products prior to the test to ensure proper electrode contact.
• Specific instructions about sleep, medication, or diet might be given prior to the procedure.
• In some cases, patients may be instructed to reduce sleep the night before the test to increase the likelihood of recording abnormal activity.

Procedure Description

1. Electrode Placement: The procedure begins with an EEG technologist placing multiple electrodes on the patient's scalp using a conductive gel.
2. Video Recording Setup: A video camera is positioned to continuously record the patient's physical activity.
3. Data Monitoring: EEG equipment records the brain's electrical activity, while the technologist monitors the real-time data to ensure accurate recording.
4. Real-Time Maintenance: The technologist may need to adjust electrodes or equipment settings during the procedure to maintain data quality.
5. Data Review and Analysis: During and after the procedure, the collected data and video are reviewed to identify any abnormal brain activity.

Duration

The procedure typically lasts between 2 to 12 hours, depending on the specific needs of the diagnostic evaluation.

Setting

The VEEG is usually performed in a hospital, EEG laboratory, or specialized outpatient clinic equipped for continuous monitoring.

Personnel

• EEG Technologist
• Neurologist or Epileptologist (to review data and provide diagnosis)

Risks and Complications

• Discomfort or mild irritation at electrode sites
• Rarely, skin reactions to the adhesive used for electrodes
• Prolonged immobility during the procedure might cause discomfort

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of neurological conditions
• Identification of seizure types and specific brain activity patterns
• Tailored treatment plans based on detailed brain activity data
• Immediate correlation of physical behaviors with brain activity

Recovery

• No significant recovery time is required.
• Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Follow-up appointments are often scheduled to discuss the results and treatment options.

Alternatives

• Standard EEG without video monitoring: Less comprehensive as it lacks the video correlation with brain activity.

• Ambulatory EEG: Allows patients to move freely but may not capture as detailed data as VEEG.

  Pros:

• Other EEG methods can be less time-intensive and more comfortable.

  Cons:

• They may miss some critical diagnostic information that VEEG provides.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients might feel some discomfort from the electrodes and may need to lie still for long periods. Mild discomfort or skin irritation might occur at the electrode sites. Pain management and comfort measures are minimal, as the procedure is non-invasive. Patients are encouraged to relax and follow the technologist's instructions for the best quality recording.