Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Records electrical activity of the brain to diagnose and/or monitor:

• Seizures
• Brain injury
• Stroke
• Brain tumors
• Encephalitis
• Migraines
• Coma
• Drug overdose
• Cerebral palsy
• Brain death

Nerve Conduction Study (NCS)

The NCS is valuable in diagnosing many disorders including carpal tunnel syndrome. The nerve is stimulated and electrodes attached to the skin measure the velocity and amplitude of the nerve impulse. F-waves will help determine if there is nerve root compression. NCS is also used to diagnosis diabetic, poly-, or peripheral neuropathies. NCS for upper extremity testing takes approximately an hour.

Electromyogram (EMG)

An EMG records the electrical activity of muscles to check for muscle weakness, spasms, and paralysis or pain in the arms, hands, legs, or face. Performed by a specially trained physician, an EMG also can determine if a disease involves the spinal cord, nerves, muscles, or the nerve-muscle junction. Both NCS and EMG are often performed at the same appointment.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

EEG records the on-going electrical activity of the brain. Small electrodes or electrocaps are attached to the scalp and ear lobes. Eye movements and EKG are also monitored. During the exam different types of EEG activations will be attempted with the patient: opening and closing of the eyes,  hyperventilating for 3 minutes, looking at a strobe light, answering questions. An EEG exam usually takes between 60 and 80 minutes.

Evoked Potentials (EP)

Also called Evoked Responses, this test includes three separate procedures, each focusing on a different nerve pathway:

• Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potential (BAEP) evaluates the nerve pathway from the ear through the brainstem and provides information regarding hearing integrity and brainstem function. It is also useful in diagnosing acoustic neuromas and multiple sclerosis.
• Somatosensory Evoked Potential (SEP) checks the pathway from limb nerves to the brain. The SEP studies the function of the spinal cord and nerves in the limbs.
• Visual Evoked Potential (VEP) checks the pathway from the eyes to the brain and may help find the cause of vision problems or other conditions such as multiple sclerosis or optic neuritis.