Neurophysiology Diagnostics for Patients
Neurophysiology diagnostics play a crucial role in many clinical pathways for individuals facing issues and conditions that impact the functioning of the brain, nervous system, and muscles.
Clinical Applications of Neurophysiological Investigations
Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG):
These tests offer an objective assessment and typically involve two components. Firstly, nerve conduction studies employ electrical pulses to stimulate various nerves, examining motor and sensory nerve function. Secondly, fine concentric needle or surface electrodes are used to assess muscle function, known as electromyography (EMG).
Evoked Potential Studies (EPS) – Visual (VEP), Auditory (AEP), and Somatosensory (SSEP):
Evoked potentials are brain-produced responses to specific stimuli, such as a flashing light, sound, or electrical pulse. They are utilized to evaluate nerve pathways, especially in certain neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis and optic nerve disorders.
Chemodenervation with Botulinum toxin under EMG guidance:
This procedure is employed for conditions like blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm, spasmodic torticollis, and writer’s cramp. Repetitive Nerve Stimulation Study and Single Fiber EMG are conducted for myasthenia gravis and Eaton-Lambert syndrome.
Electro Retinography (ERG):
Used for evaluating various retinal diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy.
Video –Electroencephalogram (EEG):
EEG records the brain's electrical activity and is utilized in investigating various neurological conditions like epilepsy/unexplained blackouts, intracranial infections, metabolic disorders, encephalopathy, abnormal movement, stroke, confusion, memory deterioration or impairment/dementia, and sleep disorders. In epilepsy, EEG assists in localizing/classifying the problem, assessing treatment, identifying underlying causes or prognosis, as certain types of epilepsy respond best to specific medications.