Electroneurodiagnostics

Electroneurodiagnostics (END) is the study and recording of electrical activity in the brain and nervous system. Our technologists perform a variety of tests on the central, peripheral and autonomic nervous system. Common electroneurodiagnostic procedures include:

• Electroencephalography-Electroencephalography (EEG) labs administer EEG tests at our hospitals. EEG is the recording of electrical activity from the brain. An EEG may be ordered for patients with headaches, fainting spells, tremors, seizures, Alzheimer's Disease, confusion, memory loss or loss consciousness. EEG's may also be performed in the operating room to monitor brainwaves during surgery.
  
• Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU)-This multidisciplinary unit and is devoted to epilepsy detection and treatment and specializes in long-term seizure monitoring. The brainwaves and heart rate of epilepsy patients are recorded for several days to evaluate seizure activity and rule out psychological problems. During the epilepsy monitoring, digital video of the patient is recorded.
  
• Evoked Potentials-A procedure to check for visual problems, Visual Evoked Potential (VEP) is performed in the Evoked Potentials Lab for both inpatients and outpatients. A procedure to assess hearing (BAEP) is also performed in this lab. Somatosensory (SSEP), a procedure to check the nervous system (signals from the brain to the spinal cord) of the upper and/or lower extremities can be performed in the lab or operating room.
  
• Nerve Conduction Studies/Electromyography-Nerve Conduction Studies/Electromyography (NCV/EMG) procedures are performed together by stimulating nerves and muscles. During this test, a mild electrical current tests how fast impulses move along the nerve pathway. An EMG uses a fine needle electrode through the skin into muscle to measure electrical activity. Both procedures may be ordered for patients with tingling or numbness in various parts of the body.

Electroneurodiagnostic testing may be ordered by a physician for conditions including:

• Patients who either have or might have a seizure disorder.
• Patients who have had a stroke.
• Patients who have lost consciousness or have fallen for unknown reasons.
• Patient with breathing problems, including respiratory failure.
• Unresponsive patients or those with mental status changes.

The electroneurodiagnostics department is located on the 12th floor of the Thomas Wing at Methodist University Hospital. For more information, call 901.516.7690.