EEG (Electroencephalogram)

An EEG is a recording of the spontaneous electrical activity of the brain. Small metal disc electrodes are attached to the scalp of the patient with paste. The electrodes “pick up” the electrical activity of the brain. The patient may be required to sleep during a portion of the test, and special activation procedures, such as deep breathing and strobe light stimulation may be performed. Routine EEG’s usually take approximately 1 ½ hours and Prolonged EEG’s take approximately 2 hours. Patients should plan on washing their hair after the test because of any residual paste.

When is this test conducted?

Because EEG shows patterns of electrical activity of the brain, it is most commonly used in diagnosing epilepsy and seizures. It can be used for head trauma, stroke, brain tumor, migraine, or dementia patients.