Department of Neuropsychiatry And Behavioral Science Acquires EEG Equipment

EEG techinician Carol Crain applies electrodes to prepare a patient for an electroencephalogram.

The digital XL Tek EEG records all cerebroelectrical activities on computer and eliminates the volumes of paper that used to be required to print out results. The entire procedure, including the placement and removal of electrodes on the patient’s scalp, takes about one hour.

“This gives us a diagnostic capability that we have not had before,” said Dr. William Brannon, a clinical professor of Neurology. “It also provides a helpful teaching tool for the medical students, in that we can show them the test while the patient is having it done.”

The EEG is particularly useful for patients with suspected seizure or altered mental status of uncertain etiology. “Through the EEG we can demonstrate the seizure activities, and may help determine which area of the brain has an abnormality consistent with seizures,” said Dr. Hwang.

EEG testing is done from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 4:30 to
6:00 p.m. on Fridays in the Department of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Science. Referrals are welcome from other departments when physicians determine that an EEG is indicated. To schedule a patient, call Carol Crain at 803-434-4260. 

Reprinted from Connections newsletter, April 2003

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