Our Approach

Neurodiagnostic technologists are trained to understand neurophysiology and recognize normal and abnormal electrical activity. They act as eyes and ears for specially trained doctors who later review and interpret the data.

We offer testing for all ages of patients both in the hospital and on an outpatient basis. Pediatric EEG interpretations are done in cooperation with Seattle Children's Hospital and Swedish Medical Center. Older children and adult interpretations are done by Kadlec Neuroscience neurologists.

Electroencephalogram (EEG) Screening Services

Kadlec offers an electroencephalogram (EEG) screening tool that measures and records the electrical activity of the brain and translates that activity into a series of wavy lines. Conditions such as seizures often will demonstrate changes in this electrical activity. The EEG test will likely be ordered to see whether there are any continuing irregularities in the brain's electrical activity that may be producing seizures.

Normal electrical activity in the brain makes a recognizable pattern. Seizures produce very specific, abnormal patterns. Even without having a seizure, doctors can recognize abnormal patterns that are markers for the risk of seizures.

Having an EEG is a painless, safe procedure.

EEG tests may be given at Kadlec Neuroscience Center. Sometimes the person having the test will be told to stay up late the night before and to avoid caffeine drinks on the morning of the test.

• Before the test, the EEG technologist applies the small metal disks (called electrodes) to several places on the scalp. A special glue or paste is used to attach the electrode disks. It washes out afterwards. Sometimes a cap with the wires already attached is used instead.
• Some EEG tests are made while you sit in a chair; others are performed while you lie down on a couch.
• During the test, the technologist may ask you to breathe deeply through your mouth for a short time. You might feel a little dizzy or notice numbness in your hands or feet. This goes away once breathing returns to normal. The technologist may shine a flashing light into your eyes, or ask you to open and close them rapidly a few times. You may also be asked to sleep or to make other simple responses, depending on the aims of the test.
• The average EEG test may last 35 to 40 minutes; one involving a period of sleep will take longer.