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 60 hours, up to 84

Summary

An EEG is a test that measures electrical activity in the brain. Continuous recording over an extended period (greater than 60 hours, up to 84 hours) aids in diagnosing neurological conditions. A healthcare professional will review the recorded data, analyze any abnormal events such as spikes and seizures, and provide an interpretation and summary report.

Purpose

This procedure helps to diagnose conditions like epilepsy, sleep disorders, encephalopathies, and other neurological dysfunctions. The goal is to identify abnormal brain activity over a prolonged period to provide accurate diagnostics and inform treatment plans.

Indications

• Unexplained seizures
• Suspected epilepsy
• Sleep disorders
• Unexplained periods of unconsciousness
• Monitoring the effectiveness of treatments for neurological conditions

Preparation

• Follow specific dietary restrictions as instructed (e.g., avoid caffeine).
• Continue taking medications unless advised otherwise.
• Wash hair thoroughly but avoid using any hair products.

Procedure Description

1. Setup: The patient’s scalp is fitted with multiple electrodes connected to an EEG machine.
2. Continuous Recording: The patient wears the equipment for 60 to 84 hours, either in a hospital, outpatient setting, or at home.
3. Data Review: A physician or qualified healthcare professional monitors and reviews the recorded events for any spikes, seizures, or abnormal patterns.
4. Analysis & Report: The data is analyzed, interpreted, and summarized in a detailed report.

Duration

The recording spans greater than 60 hours, up to 84 hours.

Setting

The procedure can be performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or the patient’s home under specific conditions.

Personnel

• Neurologist or specialized physician
• EEG technologist
• Nurses (if in a hospital setting)

Risks and Complications

• Minor skin irritation from electrode adhesive
• Rare disconnection or malfunction of electrodes, requiring reattachment

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of epilepsy and other neurological disorders
• Identification of seizure patterns and triggers
• Informing and guiding treatment strategies
• Improvement in management and outcomes for neurological conditions

Recovery

• No significant recovery period is needed.
• Hair and scalp may need cleaning to remove electrode adhesive.
• Follow up with healthcare provider to discuss results and next steps.

Alternatives

• Traditional EEG (shorter duration)
• Ambulatory EEG
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

Each alternative has its pros and cons; for instance, MRI and CT scans provide structural images of the brain but do not monitor electrical activity.

Patient Experience

• Patients may experience mild discomfort from the electrodes.
• Activities are monitored during the recording period, but most daily activities can be continued.
• Pain management is typically unnecessary, but comfort measures can be taken to ensure the patient is as comfortable as possible during the prolonged study period.