Name of the Procedure:

Electroencephalogram (EEG) Extended Monitoring; 41-60 minutes
Common Name(s): EEG, Brain Wave Test

Summary

An Electroencephalogram (EEG) extended monitoring is a non-invasive test that records electrical activity of the brain over a period of 41-60 minutes. Sensors called electrodes are placed on the scalp to detect brain wave patterns.

Purpose

EEG monitoring is used to detect abnormalities in the brain's electrical activity, which helps diagnose conditions such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, brain tumors, and brain dysfunction caused by head injuries.

Indications

• Unexplained seizures
• Diagnosing and monitoring epilepsy
• Evaluating sleep disorders
• Investigation of brain activity in patients in coma
• Assessment after a head injury

Preparation

• Wash hair prior to the procedure and do not use any hair products.
• Avoid caffeine on the day of the test.
• Continue taking prescribed medications unless advised otherwise.
• Inform the physician of any medications taken.
• There may not be a need to fast unless specified by the healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be asked to sit or lie down.
2. The technician will apply special glue or conductive gel to attach the electrodes to specific locations on the scalp.
3. The patient will be asked to relax and might be asked to open and close their eyes, perform deep breathing exercises, or be exposed to light stimuli.
4. Electrical activity of the brain will be recorded while the patient remains as still as possible.
5. The monitoring period lasts for 41-60 minutes.

Tools/Equipment Used:

• Electrodes
• EEG machine

Generally, local anesthetics or sedation are not required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 41-60 minutes.

Setting

The EEG is usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or doctor's office in a specialized EEG room.

Personnel

• EEG Technician
• Neurologist (interpreting the results)

Risks and Complications

• Minor skin irritation from the electrodes.

• Rarely, an allergic reaction to the adhesive or gel.

  Complications are very rare and typically do not require significant management.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of neurological conditions.
• Helps tailor treatment plans.
• Immediate feedback on brain activity abnormalities.

Recovery

Post-procedure:

• Resume normal activities immediately after the test.

• Wash out any residual glue or gel from the scalp.

  No recovery time is generally needed, and results are discussed in a follow-up appointment.

Alternatives

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): provides detailed images of the brain structure but does not measure electrical activity.
• CT Scan: useful for structural imaging but not for electrical activity.
• Sleep studies: specific to diagnosing sleep disorders.

Patient Experience

The procedure is generally painless.

• Minor discomfort from the adhesive or gel.
• Anxiety might be experienced by some patients during the procedure; however, medical staff are trained to provide comfort and reassurance.
• No pain management typically necessary.