Name of the Procedure:

Electroencephalogram (EEG), continuous recording, physician or other qualified health care professional review of recorded events, analysis of spike and seizure detection, interpretation, and summary report, complete study; greater than 36 hours, up to 60

Summary

An Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test that measures electrical activity in the brain. Continuous EEG recording involves monitoring brain activity over an extended period (greater than 36 hours, up to 60 hours) to detect abnormal brain waves associated with seizures. This data is reviewed by a physician or other qualified health care professional who performs an analysis, interprets the results, and provides a summary report.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a continuous EEG is to diagnose and monitor conditions that affect brain activity, such as epilepsy or other seizure disorders. This procedure helps in identifying abnormal brain wave patterns, understanding seizure triggers, and assessing the effectiveness of ongoing treatment strategies.

Indications

• Recurrent seizures or suspected epilepsy
• Unexplained episodes of loss of consciousness
• Monitoring brain activity in patients undergoing treatment for seizures
• Diagnosing sleep disorders or other neurological conditions

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to adjust their medication regimen.
• Fasting is typically not required.
• Hair should be clean and free of hair products like gels or sprays.
• Participation in pre-procedure clinical assessments, if necessary.

Procedure Description

1. Electrode Placement: Small electrodes are attached to the patient’s scalp using a special adhesive paste.
2. Continuous Monitoring: Brain activity is continuously recorded using the electrodes for more than 36 hours and up to 60 hours.
3. Data Recording: The recorded data is stored for later review and analysis.
4. Review and Analysis: A physician or qualified health professional analyzes the recorded EEG data to detect any abnormal brain wave patterns, such as spikes or seizures.
5. Interpretation and Reporting: The healthcare professional interprets the findings and prepares a detailed summary report.

Duration

The continuous EEG recording lasts between 36 hours and 60 hours.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting, outpatient clinic, or specialized EEG monitoring facility.

Personnel

• Neurologist or epileptologist
• EEG technician
• Healthcare professionals for patient monitoring

Risks and Complications

• Minor discomfort from electrode placement or adhesive.
• Skin irritation where electrodes are attached.
• Low risk of behavioral disturbances due to prolonged monitoring.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of seizure disorders.
• Identification of specific brain activity patterns associated with epilepsy.
• Enhanced understanding of seizure triggers and response to treatment.
• Improved seizure management and tailored treatment plans.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care usually involves removing the electrodes and cleaning the scalp.
• Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately.
• A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to discuss the results.

Alternatives

• Routine EEG: A shorter EEG session; less likely to capture infrequent seizure activity.
• Ambulatory EEG: Portable EEG monitoring allowing the patient to move freely but shorter than 36 hours.
• Video EEG: Combination of video recording and EEG to correlate physical behavior with brain activity.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel mild discomfort during electrode attachment.
• They will need to maintain the electrodes and recording equipment for the duration of the study.
• Careful movement is required to ensure electrodes remain in place.
• Post-procedure, patients may experience slight skin irritation that is manageable with proper skincare.