Neurology Procedures

General Neurology, the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and muscle.

Electroencephalogram (EEG): Records continuous brain activity by means of applying electrodes to the scalp. EEG’s are often used to help diagnose structural diseases of the brain, seizures, fainting, black outs, falling and headaches. It is a painless procedure and requires little preparation.

Ambulatory EEG: Records electrical brain activity for a 24-hour period. The electrodes are placed the same way as in an EEG, but the patient is allowed to return home and continue normal daily activity. The electrodes are removed the following day.

Evoked Potentials: Records the brain’s electrical response to sight, hearing and touch. Evoked Potentials are also used to evaluate disorders of the spinal cord and brain.

Electromyograms (EMG) and Nerve Conduction: Measures and records electrical activity from the muscles and nerves in order to investigate possible disorders. This test may be helpful to patients who have symptoms of pain, numbness, tingling or weakness. Because small needles are inserted into the muscle and mild electrical shocks are often given to stimulate the nerve, slight discomfort may be experienced.

Computerized Tomography (CT): Uses both X-ray and computers to construct pictures of the brain. These pictures can provide valuable information regarding disease states in the brain. A CT Scan is painless. This test is not done in our office.

Cerebral Spinal Fluid Analysis (Spinal Tap): A needle is inserted into the lower back and fluid is withdrawn from the spinal canal. This test is a crucial step in making a diagnosis regarding, infection, bleeding or tumors residing in the brain or spinal cord.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A painless examination of the nervous system using magnets and computers. MRI’s may require a contrast agent. An MRI is typically performed of the brain or various levels of the spine.