Video-EEG - electroencephalography (children)

What is a video-EEG? 

The video-EEG test is a synchronous recording of the EEG (bioelectrical brain activity) and the patient's physical responses recorded with a special camera.

The test is non-invasive, painless and completely safe. Depending on the diagnostic need, it is performed during sleep or wakefulness.

In children under the age of 4, the EEG is performed only in sleep. In older children, an awake EEG can be performed, provided the young patient is calm and follows instructions.

Note that the examination lasts a minimum of one hour. After the time is exceeded, a surcharge for another hour applies.

Indications 

Video-EEG is performed:

• in the diagnosis of epilepsy,
• after head injuries,
• after neurosurgical operations,
• to determine the causes of sleep or memory disorders,
• in cases of recurrent syncope,
• in cases of frequent headaches, 
• in cases of paroxysmal movement disorders.

Course

The examination takes place in the supine position. A special cap with electrodes is placed on the patient's head. The patient falls asleep, and in the case of awake examination is asked to follow the instructions of the person conducting the examination (e.g. deep breathing, closing and opening the eyes).

Awake EEG:

• At the time of examination, the child should be sleepy and rested, after a light meal. 
• The child's hair should be washed. No preparations (e.g., oils, detangling sprays) should be applied to the scalp. Hair ornaments should be removed prior to examination. 
• On the day of the examination, the child should be healthy, with no infections. 
• If the child admits medications prescribed by the doctor, they should be administered as usual on the day of the examination. All other preparations (such as vitamins) should be discontinued 2-3 weeks before the examination. The parent should know the names and dosages of the medications the child is taking. In the case of antibiotic therapy, the examination is performed at the earliest 10 days after the end of treatment.
• On the day of the examination, the child should not eat chocolate or drink carbonated beverages. 

Sleep EEG: 

• At the time of proceeding to the examination, the child should be tired, sleepy - do not allow him to sleep shortly before the examination. 
• Arrive for the examination about 30 minutes early so that the child can calm down. 
• The child can have his favorite cuddly toy, pillow, blanket, etc. with him. He or she can be in pajamas. 
• At the time of examination, the child should be after an easily digestible meal.
• The child's hair should be washed. No preparations (e.g., oils, detangling sprays) should be applied to the scalp. Hair ornaments should be removed prior to examination. 
• On the day of the examination, the child should be healthy, with no infections. 
• If the child admits medications prescribed by the doctor, they should be administered as usual on the day of the examination. All other preparations (such as vitamins) should be discontinued 2-3 weeks before the examination. The parent should know the names and dosages of the medications the child is taking. In the case of antibiotic therapy, the examination is performed at the earliest 10 days after the end of treatment.
• On the day of the examination, the child should not eat chocolate or drink carbonated beverages.