elektroencefalograafiat

Elektroentsefalograafia, commonly known as EEG, is a non-invasive neurophysiological diagnostic method used to record the electrical activity of the brain. This technique measures and analyzes brain waves, which are generated by the synchronized firing of neurons. Electrodes are typically placed on the scalp in a standardized pattern to capture these electrical signals. The recording process is painless and takes approximately 20 to 60 minutes, though longer or shorter durations are possible depending on the clinical need.

The primary purpose of EEG is to detect abnormalities in brain activity. It is widely used in the diagnosis and monitoring of epilepsy, where characteristic patterns like spike-and-wave discharges can be observed. EEG also plays a role in evaluating sleep disorders, diagnosing certain types of brain tumors, assessing the effects of traumatic brain injury, and in some cases, determining brain death. Furthermore, it can be utilized in research to study cognitive processes, such as attention and memory.

The raw EEG data is a series of waveforms representing voltage fluctuations over time. Specialized software is used to analyze these patterns, identifying different frequencies associated with various states of consciousness, such as wakefulness, drowsiness, and sleep. Deviations from normal patterns can indicate underlying neurological conditions. While EEG is a valuable tool, it is often used in conjunction with other diagnostic methods, such as MRI or CT scans, to provide a comprehensive understanding of a patient's neurological status. The interpretation of EEG requires specialized training and experience.