HF 6449

Outpatient Video EEG (Electroencephalogram) University Hospital

What is an EEG?

This test helps us to find out more about the kind of seizures or events you are having. During the test, a camera records your behavior. This is paired with an EEG recording of your brain wave activity. Sometimes, movements may look like seizures, but they are not. If you have seizures, this study will help us learn how strong they are and how often they occur. It will also help us find out what part of the brain the seizures are coming from.

This test will also help us decide if you are having silent seizures. These are seizures that occur without any physical signs. Changes can be seen on the EEG with this type of seizure.

The test is painless. There will not be any shots or special medicines used. Small metal disks will be placed on your scalp. Your hair will be moved out of the way. These disks will be held in place using special paste made just for this test.

Insurance

This test may require pre-authorization from your insurance company. Not all insurance plans will cover this test. Please call your insurance to find out if this test is covered. You may also need a referral from your primary doctor. If so, ask your primary doctor for this and send it to the insurance company. This will need to be done as soon as possible. It often takes 2-4 weeks to find out about coverage. Your insurer will contact you after they make their decision.

Getting Ready for Your EEG

  • Please bring with you any items to keep you busy such as books, crossword puzzles, cell phone and iPad. If you bring electronics, please be sure to bring your chargers.

  • If the test is ordered as “Sleep Deprived,” stay awake from midnight to the time of the test. You need to avoid caffeine during those hours, but you can eat and drink. Seethe Health Facts for Sleep Deprived EEG #4207.

  • Do not use any products that help you stay awake.

  • Do not sleep close to the exam start time if it is a “sleep deprived” study.

  • Your hair must be clean for this test. Wash it the night before or in the morning and do not apply a lot of conditioners, gels, or sprays.

  • Remove any hair weaves before the EEG.

  • You will be in a large, comfortable room for the day. There will be a TV/VCR/DVD

  • You will remain in the EEG room for the entire test.

  • You will be able to use the bathroom which is just outside the room.

  • You need to have a support person with you during this test. This person will be given breaks when needed.

  • Do not bring children to the test.

  • You may purchase food items from the cafeteria or you can bring your own snacks from home.

Arriving for Your EEG

  • Arrive 15 minutes before the test so you can check-in.

  • Park in the main parking ramp at University Hospital and enter through the “Clinic Entrance.”

  • Registration is on the main floor and will be on your right in the “Town Square” lobby. You can also stop at the Clinics Information Desk if you need directions.

  • After you check-in at Registration, follow “Main Street” towards the H elevator lobby. Stay on “Main Street” into the J module until you get to the EEG lab.

  • Please check-in at the EEG desk.

  • Your outpatient video EEG may take 2 to 8 hours.

After Your EEG

When the test is complete, the disks will be removed with warm water and/or shampoo if needed

Results

The final report on your EEG will be sent to your referring and/or primary doctor within a few days. Your doctor will discuss the results of the test with you and recommend treatment, if needed.

Who to Call

HMO desk

(For questions about insurance)

(608) 263-8773

EEG Lab

(608) 263-8483

Patients should contact us directly in EEG for any questions or scheduling needs for outpatient EEGs, not the clinic.