Electroencephalogram (EEG) Test for Carotid Endarterectomy and Other Surgeries
Our neural monitoring technologists use electroencephalogram ( EEG) equipment and computer enhanced EEG equipment to monitor procedures where the cerebral cortex may be at risk, such as during a carotid endarterectomy or cardiopulmonary bypass. An EEG test may also be used to evaluate the effects of anesthetic on a patient.
To perform an EEG test, our neural monitoring technologists will position flat metal discs, called electrodes, in different positions on the patient's scalp and hold them in place with a sticky paste. Wires then connect the electrodes to an amplifier and a recording machine. This allows the ongoing EEG activity from the scalp to be recorded from a multi-electrode array. Using computer enhanced EEG, the activity from the cerebral cortex is obtained by recording the electrical signals from the scalp and converting them into waveforms. These waves are then subjected to Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis. The resulting spectrum is sampled and monitored at 10-second intervals. Changes in the amplitude or power of the EEG components correlate with the metabolic state of the cortical structures. However, since the waveform changes could indicate neural damage or simply result from the patient reacting to anesthesia, our skilled neural monitoring technologists must read the EEG test equipment and interpret the anesthetic or technical variables.
Types of Surgeries that Use EEG Monitoring Equipment
EEG equipment is used to test cortical structures during procedures such as carotid endarterectomy and cardiopulmonary bypass, surgeries where the cortex may be at risk. By monitoring the cortical structures, our neural monitoring technologists are able to detect and evaluate any abnormalities and can take action to prevent a negative post-surgical outcome.
Advantages of EEG
An EEG test is a non-invasive procedure that uses flat metal discs and other special EEG equipment, so it does not cause any pain for the patient. It is also effective in displaying the metabolic state of the cortical structures during carotid endarterectomy and other surgeries.
Disadvantages of EEG
Patients may experience some minor discomfort due to the EEG equipment. Having electrodes held in place on the scalp with sticky paste may feel strange. However, patients typically feel this only for a brief period of time, as they are usually under general anesthetic during surgery itself.
If you are looking for neural monitoring technologists that can provide monitoring during carotid endarterectomy, cardiopulmonary bypass, and other procedures that require the use of EEG test equipment, you have come to the right place. At Biotronic, our neural monitoring technologists have extensive training in EEG monitoring and are available around the clock. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
812 Avis Drive
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108
map and directions
Toll Free:
(866) 856-4404
Fax:
(734) 677-2423
Our clinicians at Biotronic use EEG equipment to test brain activity during surgical procedures such as carotid endarterectomy and other procedures.