Neurophysiology Department
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Home Video Telemetry EEG Monitoring (Outpatient) (198kB pdf)
What is Home Video Telemetry EEG Monitoring?
Home Video Telemetry EEG Monitoringis the simultaneous recording of the activity of the brain and video recording of your child. It is used to help investigate a number of conditions most commonly black outs or frequent seizures. The aim of the test is to capture some of your child’s typical episodes which they are experiencing throughout the day or night time.
Will Home Video Telemetry EEG Monitoring hurt my child?
No, as it is a painless test and there are no side effects
What should I expect to happen during this test?
Your child will be monitored, for up to 5 days. This is decided on clinical grounds and will be discussed with you on arrival.
Please ensure your child has clean hair which is free from hair gel etc.
Make sure your child continues with their regular medication unless advised otherwise by your child’s Consultant.
The test is performed by the Clinical Physiologist who will explain all aspects of the test thoroughly.
To monitor your child’s brain patterns, the EEG electrodes are attached to the scalp with special adhesive or bandage. This ensures the electrodes remain in place during day time activities and sleep. We do not shave or cut their hair.
The electrodes are connected to a small recorder which is placed in a bag and worn either around the waist or across the body.
During the procedure, you will be shown how to set up a video camera for use at home. You will be given instructions to take away with you.
During set up
Your child can watch a DVD during the set up procedure, which takes approximately 30 – 45 minutes and they can bring in their favourite DVD or Tablet / small hand held toy if you prefer.
If your child is a baby or infant, please bring a bottle with you in case they want a feed. It helps if your child wears a T shirt or a button through top for the duration of the test.
Once set up, the monitoring is carried out at home, but you will need to bring your child back with all the equipment to the department each day to upload data from the previous 24 hours, to change the battery, and re-attach any loose electrodes if necessary. Each visit takes about 30 – 45 minutes.
Whilst being monitored, your child will be able to attend school or nursery as normal but will not be able to take part in sports or swimming class whilst the electrodes are in place. Also they will not be able to wash & comb their hair or have a bath / shower.
You will only be able to record video data in your home environment, unless discussed with us otherwise.
At the end of the monitoring period
There are no after effects following the test and we remove the electrodes with a solution which dissoves the adhesive.On very rare occasions, especially if your child has delicate skin, there may be small tender areas on some of the places where the electrodes have been. These should disappear very quickly and leave no side effects
The Clinical Physiologist cannot give you any results immediately. It is reported by the Consultant in the department and you will receive the results at your next clinic appointment.
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