Electrodiagnostic studies including EMG, NCS, and EEG can assist with establishing a diagnosis, as well as identify other relevant problems, define the severity and chronicity of the disorder, and/or provide information useful for recovery, prognosis, and treatment.
The Electrodiagnostic Clinic at CTNC is staffed by Adam H. Horvit, MD and Terry S. Peery, DO. Both are board certified neurologists with additional subspecialty training in EMG and Neuromuscular Medicine (Dr. Horvit), and EEG and Epilepsy (Dr. Peery).
This place is the best. Dr. Couch listens patiently, is empathetic, and is the first doctor to help me find a treatment that works. He also understood my hesitation to keep trying new medications after so many have let me down. He gently suggested my treatment a year ago and talked through my concerns until I felt confident. Thanks to CTNC, my quality of life has improved drastically. I recommend you stop searching and visit this clinic right away.
This test determines whether weakness or sensory loss you are experiencing is related to nerve or muscle disease. Techniques include nerve conduction studies in which electrodes are placed on the skin to stimulate nerves, as well as needle electromyography, which records and analyzes electrical activity in muscle.
Routine EEG, or electroencephalography, records brain waves using electrodes placed at defined locations on the scalp using conductive paste or glue. You will lie still on a bed and may be asked to perform some simple tasks. Flashing lights and hyperventilation may be used during the test to provide additional information. In most cases, the brain waves during both waking and sleep are recorded. The test typically takes one to two hours.
Video EEG records actual events or seizures, which can assist with diagnosis and surgical evaluation. As with routine EEG, electrodes are glued onto the scalp, although more electrodes are typically used. During the test, antiepileptic medications are often reduced or stopped to improve the chances of recording seizures. A typical recording lasts three to five days, although it may be shorter or longer depending on how long it takes to obtain the necessary data.