Brooksville Regional offers the region's first ambulatory EEG monitoring. 

Electroencephalography (EEG), a neurophysiological study technique that has been in use for over 75 years, is a recording of the electrical potentials generated by firing neurons in the cerebral cortex. The EEG is used primarily for seizure diagnosis, although it can provide helpful information for other disorders. It is an important component of the evaluation for epilepsy surgery, which may require invasive monitoring to define the seizure onset zone and crucial functional areas.

What is the purpose of an ambulatory EEG?
The brain’s electrical activity fluctuates from second to second. The routine EEG provides a 20- to 40-minute sample of brain electrical activity, which is often sufficient. In some patients with epilepsy, however, this recording is normal or shows only minor, nonspecific findings. In such cases, an extended recording that includes long periods of wakefulness and sleep is desired. For example, in some people, epilepsy waves occur only once every 3 or 4 hours or only after an hour of sleep, and a routine EEG will almost always be normal. An ambulatory EEG, on the other hand, can record up to 72 hours of EEG activity with a special recorder that is slightly larger than a portable cassette player. This recorder allows you to go about your normal routine while the EEG is being recorded.

Why do I need the test?
Your doctor may order an ambulatory EEG for you for a number of reasons: To diagnose epilepsy and determine what type of seizures are occurring. EEG is the most useful and important test in confirming a diagnosis of epilepsy. Distinguish fainting spells from seizures. To quantify the number of abnormal discharges or seizures in patients with epilepsy. Evaluate periods of unconsciousness or memory loss. Monitor how effective medications are. Study events that occur sporadically.

Why do I need the test?
Your doctor may order an ambulatory EEG for you for a number of reasons:

• To diagnose epilepsy and determine what type of seizures are occurring. EEG is the most useful and important test in confirming a diagnosis of epilepsy.
• Distinguish fainting spells from seizures
• To quantify the number of abnormal discharges or seizures in patients with epilepsy
• Evaluate periods of unconsciousness or memory loss
• Monitor how effective medications are. Study events that occur sporadically