Name of the Procedure:

Electroencephalogram (EEG); Recording Awake and Drowsy

Summary

An Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a non-invasive test that measures electrical activity in the brain using small electrodes attached to the scalp. The procedure records brain activity while the patient is awake and drowsy, providing valuable information about the brain's functioning.

Purpose

The EEG is primarily used to diagnose brain disorders, including epilepsy, sleep disorders, encephalopathies, and other neurological conditions. It helps in identifying abnormal brain activity, understanding the nature of seizures, and guiding treatment plans.

Indications

• Recurrent seizures or suspected epilepsy
• Unexplained periods of confusion
• Head injury
• Infections affecting the brain (e.g., encephalitis)
• Sleep disorders (e.g., narcolepsy)
• Assessing brain activity in conditions such as dementia

Preparation

• Wash hair the night before the test, removing any oils or hair products.
• Avoid caffeine and other stimulants on the day of the test.
• Medication adjustments might be required as per doctor's instructions.
• Inform the technician of any implanted medical devices.
• No fasting is generally required, but specific instructions may vary.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The technician attaches small, flat metal discs (electrodes) to the scalp using a special conductive paste.
2. Recording: The patient is asked to relax with eyes closed and may be asked to perform simple tasks like opening/closing eyes or breathing deeply.
3. Awake and Drowsy Stages: Brain activity is recorded while the patient is awake. The patient might be asked to rest, close their eyes, and attempt to become drowsy to capture different stages of brain activity.
4. Monitoring: The EEG machine records the brain's electrical activity as wave patterns displayed on the screen.
5. Completion: Once sufficient data has been recorded, the electrodes are removed, and the patient can go home.

No anesthesia or sedation is required for this procedure.

Duration

The EEG procedure typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes.

Setting

EEGs are commonly performed in outpatient clinics, hospitals, or specialized diagnostic centers.

Personnel

• Neurodiagnostic Technologist: Responsible for preparing the patient and conducting the EEG recording.
• Neurologist: Reviews and interprets the EEG data.

Risks and Complications

• The EEG is a safe and painless procedure with minimal risks.
• Rarely, patients with epilepsy may experience a seizure triggered by stimuli (e.g., flashing lights).

Benefits

• Non-invasive and painless way to gather critical data on brain function.
• Assists in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning for neurological conditions.
• Rapid results can help in timely medical intervention.

Recovery

• No significant recovery time; patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow any specific post-procedure instructions provided by the healthcare provider.

Alternatives

• MRI or CT scan: Provides structural imaging of the brain but does not measure electrical activity.
• Ambulatory EEG: Extended EEG monitoring over a longer period, often at home.
• Pros and cons of each alternative depend on the specific clinical scenario being addressed.

Patient Experience

• The procedure is generally comfortable, though the patient needs to remain still.
• Some patients might find the conductive paste used with electrodes sticky or difficult to remove.
• Minimal to no pain; discomfort is mostly associated with lying still for an extended period.
• Pain management or specific comfort measures are typically not necessary.