Neurodiagnostics

This is the study and recording of electrical activity in the brain and nervous system to determine if they are functioning correctly. Battle Creek Health System offers an extensive array of neurodiagnostic services. All of our studies are performed with the latest diagnostic equipment. Our highly trained technologists are monitored by neurologists who have received specific training and experience in the field of Neuroscience.

Electroencephalograph (EEG)
An EEG records the electrical activity of the brain. Sensitive monitoring equipment records the activity through electrodes placed on the patient's scalp. EEGs assist physicians in the diagnosis of a variety of neurological problems from headaches and dizziness to seizure disorders, strokes, and degenerative brain disease. The EEG is also used to look for organic causes of psychiatric symptoms, disabilities in children and to determine irreversible brain death.

Electromyography (EMG)
(NCS) The technologist tapes small electrodes on the skin and applies a brief electrical stimulus to one portion of the nerve causing a tingling sensation and a muscle twitch. (EMG) The neurologist analyzes the electrical activity of your muscles by inserting a fine, sterile, disposable needle into selected muscles. Any discomfort felt is only mild. The needles are sterile and are discarded after each patient. An EMG/NCS can help evaluate any weakness, numbness or pain you have. Fatigue, cramps and abnormal sensation within the arms, legs or face can also be assessed.

Neurodiagnostics Intraoperative Monitoring
Neurodiagnostics monitoring may be used during some types of surgery, giving the surgeon additional information about brain and nerve function during the operation. Evoked potential and Electromyography monitoring may be used during neurosurgery to help evaluate the nerve pathways of the area being operated on.

Evoked Potential (EP)
The EP records electrical activity from the brain, spinal nerves, or sensory receptors as they respond to stimulation introduced as part of the test. How long the response takes helps evaluate a number of different problems, including spinal cord injuries and hearing loss. Most common evoked potential are: Visual Evoked Potential, Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potential, and Upper and/or Lower Somatosensory Evoked Potential.

Electronystagmograph (ENG)
The ENG is used to record nystagmus, which is an involuntary eye movement characterized by the eye jerking back and forth. It can be generated by the peripheral vestibular system associated with each ear. What we are recording then is known as the vestibular ocular reflex. The ENG provides a permanent record of eye movements, either with eyes open or closed. The ENG has been around since the early 1940's and is still the basic balance test that physicians will order when treating patients with symptoms of dizziness.