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Neurological Tests
Neurological Tests
Computerized Axial Tomography (CT) and
CT Angiography (CTA)
A CT scan is an x-ray procedure in which the area of interest is imaged in cross-sectional
slices (like a loaf of bread). Important detailed information is obtained through a series
of these "slices". Our CT lab is capable of performing scans of the head, sinuses, spine,
chest, abdomen, pelvis and extremities as well as a new procedure called CT angiography.
Preparation for a CT scan is relatively simple. If you physician orders a scan requiring x-ray
contrast (iodine contrast), please follow these instructions:
- Inform the technologist of any known allergies to IV contrast (x-ray dye).
- If you take a diabetic medicine called "Glucophage" or "Glucovance", it is recommended
that you discontinue for 48 hours after scanning with IV contrast.
- We encourage fluid intake up until scan for hydration.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
An MRI scan produces very clear images of the human body or blood vessels without the use of x-rays.
This is done with the use of a magnet, radio waves, antenna, and a computer that produces these
images. An average MRI scan takes about 5 to 15 minutes. A complete scan takes 20 to 60 minutes.
Please inform the technologist if you have any of the following:
- claustrophobia
- a pacemaker
- a metal plate, pin or other metallic implant
- aneurysm clips
- an artificial heart valve
- an intrauterine device (IUD)
- ever been a metal worker
- ever been wounded during the military service
- if you might be pregnant
Discomfort or injury may occur if metallic items within your body are placed within the magnetic
field. This may exclude you from having the MRI done. No special preparation is needed, although
you may be asked to remove your street clothes and wear a special nonstatic gown. You will also
need to leave jewelry, watches, and credit cards outside the MRI scan room because they may be
damaged by the magnetic field.
Please do not wear:
- hairspray
- makeup
- a hearing aid
- eyeglasses
- jewelry
- any removable dental work
Neuro-Diagnostic Lab
NCV (Nerve Conduction Velocity)
EMG (Electromyogram)
JOLLY (Repetitive Stimulation)
- Allow 1 to 1-1/2 hours for the study.
- Do not apply lotions or oils to your arms or legs.
- Take medications as normal unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
- Eat as you normally would.
EEG (Electroencephalogram/Brain Wave Study)
- Allow 1 to 1-1/2 hours for the study.
- Hair should be clean, dry, with no hair products.
- Eat as you normally would.
- Bring a list of your medications.
- If sleep-deprived EEG, go to bed at 12 Midnight and get up at 3:00 a.m.
- Eat a good breakfast. No caffeine.
- Bring a driver.
AEEG (Ambulatory EEG)
- Allow 1 to 2 hours for hookup of the test.
- Hair should be clean, dry, with no hair products.
- Eat as you normally would.
- Please wear a button-down shirt for easy removal.
- This is a 24-hour study. You wear it home and return the next day.
MSLT (Multiple Sleep Latency Test)
- Allow 8 hours for each test.
- Hair should be clean, dry with no hair products.
- Wear comfortable clothes.
- Bring magazines, videos, hobbies to keep you busy between naps.
- Take medications as normal unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
VEP (Visual Evoked Potential)
BEP (Brainstem Evoked Potential)
- Allow 1 hour for each test.
- Hair should be clean, dry, with no hair products.
- If you wear contacts, glasses, or hearing aids, bring these with you.
- Take medications as normal unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
SEP (Somotosensory Evoked Potential)
- Allow 1 to 3 hours for this test.
- Follow instructions for EEG and EMG/NCV's.
- Follow any instructions that your physician may have given you. If you are being
sedated for this study, please make sure you are driven to and from our office for
this test.
Please feel free to call our office at 802-2080 if you have any questions.
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