Ambulatory Video Electroencephalogram (EEG)
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a diagnostic test used for measuring the electrical activity of the brain. The test involves small metal discs (electrodes) attached to the scalp. The electrical impulses in the brain are captured as wavy lines in the EEG recording. EEG is used for diagnosing many brain conditions, but more prominently, it is used for checking if a patient has epilepsy.
A routine EEG captures the brain’s electrical activity for about 20 to 40 minutes, and because this time frame may not be sufficient to capture events outside that window, doctors use an Ambulatory Video Electroencephalogram (EEG) for a longer recording, including the time the patient is sleeping. Patients can walk around during the test. A camera is also given to the patient so the doctor can observe any concerning events/episodes during the study and correlate this with the brain wave activity.
Who Needs an Ambulatory Video Electroencephalogram (EEG)?
If a patient has episodes that are not typical of seizures but are suspected of having seizures, this test can help establish the diagnosis. If a patient has known Epilepsy and is having breakthrough seizures on current seizure medications and treatment needs optimization, this test can help with this.
Preparation
The patient will be asked to wash their hair a day before and avoid hair styling products, as holding the electrodes in place can be hard. The doctor or healthcare provider will instruct on medications (if the patient is taking any). Consider wearing a front-open shirt on the day.
The Procedure
An ambulatory EEG test records electrical activity in the brain for a number of hours or even days. Your healthcare provider will decide whether you need an ambulatory EEG test. The steps are as follows:
A healthcare professional will place EEG wires on the scalp – The same process as with a regular EEG. However, the electrodes are placed using collodion, which helps keep the electrodes in place. The wires of the electrodes are then attached to a recorder, which is a device that resembles many portable devices.
You can keep the recorder inside your shirt pocket or on your waist. The electrodes are covered using a cap or special dressing. You can continue your normal routine for up to 72 hours while the recorder and wires are in place.
Patients are asked to keep a note of everything during that time, especially any symptoms they may have noticed. Some activities may look like an abnormal activity on the EEG, which is why doctors usually ask for notes.
During the Test
If you experience any seizure during the test, you can press a button (your healthcare provider will explain), and that will mark the time, which will allow doctors to identify patterns.
After the Procedure
You will return to the clinic after the assigned time. The technician will remove the electrodes, and the recording will be downloaded. It can take up to a week to get the results of an ambulatory EEG. There is no downtime, and you can go home immediately.
Dos and Don'ts
If your doctor has shared a log sheet, make sure you include all details.
Do not shower or swim during the duration of the ambulatory EEG.
Do not brush your hair or scratch your head, as it may affect the results
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ambulatory video EEG and how does it work?
How is an ambulatory EEG different from a routine EEG or inpatient EEG?
What conditions can an ambulatory video EEG help diagnose?
How should I prepare for an ambulatory EEG test?
How long does an ambulatory video EEG recording typically last?
What should I expect during and after my ambulatory EEG test?
Can I go about normal daily activities while wearing the EEG device?
Is an ambulatory EEG safe, and does it cause any discomfort?
How are the results of an ambulatory EEG interpreted by a neurologist?
How accurate is an ambulatory EEG for diagnosing seizure disorders?
When to Reach Out
If you have been experiencing seizures despite taking medications, or your healthcare provider finds it necessary to go beyond a standard EEG, you may need an ambulatory video EEG.
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