Electrophysiology Services by Dr. Vishal Chafale, Navi Mumbai
What is Electrophysiology ?
Electrophysiology involves the study and testing of the electrical activity of the nervous system. It helps diagnose and monitor various neurological disorders by assessing the function of the brain, nerves, and muscles.
Electroencephalography (EEG)
What is it ?
- The accumulation of fats, cholesterol, and other materials in and on the artery walls, which can interfere with blood flow.
- Clots can form in the heart (due to conditions like atrial fibrillation) and travel to the brain..
Uses
- Diagnosing epilepsy and other seizure disorders.
- Monitoring brain activity in coma patients.
- Evaluating brain function in cases of head injury, encephalitis, and sleep disorders.
Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography (NCS-EMG)
What is it?
- NCS measures the speed and strength of electrical signals in the nerves, while EMG assesses the electrical activity of muscles.
Uses
- Diagnosing nerve damage or dysfunction (neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome).
- Identifying muscle disorders (myopathy).
- Evaluating motor neuron diseases (ALS).
Visual Evoked Responses (VER)
What is it ?
- VER tests measure the electrical responses of the brain to visual stimuli, such as flashing lights or patterns.
Uses
- Diagnosing optic nerve disorders.
- Assessing visual function in conditions like multiple sclerosis.
- Evaluating vision in non-verbal or young patients.
Brainstem Auditory Evoked Responses (BERA)
What is it?
- BERA measures the electrical activity in the brainstem in response to auditory stimuli, like clicks or tones.
Uses
- Diagnosing hearing loss and auditory nerve disorders.
- Evaluating brainstem function in cases of head injury or neurological disease.
- Screening for hearing issues in newborns and infants.
Somatosensory Evoked Potentials (SSEP)
What is it?
- SSEP tests measure the electrical responses of the brain to sensory stimuli, such as mild electrical pulses applied to the skin.
Uses
- Diagnosing and monitoring spinal cord disorders.
- Evaluating nerve pathways in cases of multiple sclerosis.
- Assessing sensory function during surgeries involving the spinal cord.
Repetitive Nerve Stimulation Test (RNST)
What is it?
- RNST involves delivering repeated electrical stimuli to a nerve and recording the muscle response.
Uses
- Diagnosing neuromuscular junction disorders, such as myasthenia gravis.
- Evaluating the severity and progression of neuromuscular diseases.
FAQs on Electrophysiology Testing
Most electrophysiology tests are minimally invasive and cause little to no discomfort. Some tests may involve mild electrical pulses that can cause a brief tingling sensation.
The duration varies depending on the specific test, but most procedures range from 30 minutes to a few hours.
Electrophysiology tests are generally safe and carry minimal risk. Your neurologist will discuss any specific concerns based on your medical history.