Electroencephalography

The electroencephalography commonly known as EEG. The electroencephalography reports brain waves. The electroencephalography is used to measure the neurophysiologic measurement which have the electrical activity of the brain by recording from electrodes placed on the scalp. This is used for the detection of the level of electrical activity in the brain. The EEG signal is closely related to the level of consciousness of the person.

When EEG is measured on the scalp the amplitude is about 100 µV. The voltage is about 1-2 mV when measured on the surface of the brain. The bandwidth of this signal is from under 1 Hz to about 50 Hz. The EEG is internationally standardized system. The brain contains various types of the waves such as alpha waves, beta waves, theta waves and delta waves.

Where does electroencephalography used?

• Spontaneous activity
• Evaluation of brain disorders
• Evoked potentials
• Nervous system disorder
• To determine brain death
• Bioelectric events produced by single neurons

How electroencephalography works?

• The electroencephalography is performed by EEG technologist.
• Do not eat or drink foods that have caffeine for 8 hours before the test.
• Bring a list of your medications and allergies.
• Shampoo your hair and rinse with clear water the evening before of the test.
• Try to keep child from taking naps just before the test.
• This test will take approximately 60 minutes.
• The EEG technologist will attach 16 to 25 flat metal discs to different places on your head, using a sticky paste to hold the electrodes in place.
• In this system 21 electrodes are located on the surface of the scalp.
• Diagnose epilepsy and see what type of seizures are occurring.
• Bipolar or unipolar electrodes can be used in the EEG measurement.
• Electrode locations are determined by dividing these perimeters into 10% and 20% intervals.

What are risk related to the electroencephalography?

There are rare risks are associated with an EEG. There is no pain with an electroencephalogram . This is safety test. When someone has an epileptic seizure, their brain activity changes and is irregular. A small amount of bleeding for 1 to 2 days after the test.You may also be asked to breathe deeply for some minutes because this could increase abnormal brainwave patterns.