Neurosurgery or VNS?

Electroencephalogram (EEG)
An EEG is a non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of your brain through small electrodes placed on your scalp. It helps our medical team understand the patterns of your brain activity, specifically focusing on identifying the areas where seizures originate. This knowledge is crucial for creating a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Video EEG Monitoring
Video EEG monitoring combines the power of EEG with video recording. This comprehensive approach allows us to correlate your brain activity with any physical symptoms you experience during seizures. By observing your behavior and brain patterns simultaneously, we gain deeper insights into the nature of your seizures, which aids in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI is a sophisticated imaging technique that provides highly detailed images of your brain’s structure. This helps us identify any abnormalities or potential causes for your seizures, guiding us in pinpointing the source of your epilepsy. MRI is a safe and painless procedure that is invaluable in our diagnostic process.

Functional MRI (fMRI)
 Functional MRI is an advanced variation of traditional MRI. It not only reveals the structural aspects of your brain but also shows us which areas are active when you perform specific tasks or functions. This information is crucial in mapping critical areas of the brain responsible for language, motor functions, and memory. It ensures we preserve these functions during surgery.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
PET scans provide insight into your brain’s metabolism and activity levels. By injecting a small amount of radioactive material, we can identify areas of abnormal brain activity. This helps us pinpoint the locations that might be contributing to your seizures and plan the best treatment approach.

Single-Photon Emission Computerized Tomography (SPECT)
SPECT imaging involves tracking blood flow within your brain. By comparing images taken during a seizure with those taken during normal brain activity, we can identify areas that show increased blood flow during seizures. This information guides our treatment decisions and enhances our understanding of your epilepsy.

Neuropsychological Testing
Neuropsychological tests evaluate various cognitive functions such as memory, language, and problem-solving abilities. These assessments help us understand how epilepsy may be impacting your cognitive abilities. This knowledge ensures that your treatment plan takes into consideration all aspects of your well-being.

Intracranial EEG (iEEG) 
Intracranial EEG involves placing electrodes directly on or within your brain to precisely identify seizure focus. This highly detailed approach allows us to map brain activity with remarkable accuracy. It is often used when other tests have provided inconclusive results, providing us with a clear picture of the areas affected by epilepsy.

Wada Test
The Wada test determines which side of your brain controls language and memory functions. By temporarily anesthetizing one hemisphere of your brain, we can assess the functions of the other hemisphere. This helps us understand the potential impact of surgery on your cognitive abilities.

Cerebral Angiography
Cerebral angiography is a specialised X-ray procedure that visualises blood vessels in your brain. By using a contrast dye, we can identify any abnormalities or potential complications. This procedure ensures your safety during surgery and provides essential information for planning.

Neuroimaging (CT, MRI) 
Both CT and MRI scans provide a detailed look at your brain’s structure and any anomalies. These images help us tailor our treatment plan to your specific situation, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Blood Tests
Blood tests are part of the comprehensive diagnostic process. They assess your overall health, check for potential electrolyte imbalances, and ensure you’re prepared for surgery. These tests contribute to a safe and successful surgical experience.

We hope this comprehensive explanation of the tests brings clarity and reassurance to your journey towards neurosurgery for epilepsy. Our goal is to provide you with the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan while ensuring your comfort and well-being every step of the way. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our caring and experienced medical team. Your health and quality of life are our top priorities.