Why is an SSEP test done?
These tests are performed to evaluate and detect spinal cord injuries and disease, neuromuscular diseases and other conditions such as multiple sclerosis. During the SSEP procedure, electrodes are attached to different areas of the arms and legs along the nerve pathway to the brain, as well as on the scalp.
What is the purpose of SSEP?
An SSEP test can inform us about the presence and extent of a particular disease or injury affecting the somatosensory nerve system. It can be used to monitor someone’s neurological condition and thus track disease progression.
Can eye problems affect the brain?
The researchers said that in general, poor vision reduces a person’s ability to participate in activities that stimulate the brain. They also noted that vision had a stronger influence on brain function than the reverse.
What happens if the SSEP is damaged?
The damage means it takes a longer time for signals to be relayed along nerve pathways, or they may be blocked, resulting in changes in the SSEP. If you have a pacemaker, you should let the person conducting the test know before you begin.
How does a neurologist use the SSEP pattern?
From the SSEP, a neurologist is able to determine the time it takes for nerve fibres to relay a stimulus from the point of stimulation (wrist or ankle) to a detection site on the scalp, neck or back. By analysing the SSEP pattern, the neurologist can get an idea of how well these sensory nerves are working.
What is the role of EEG and SSEP in neurocritical care?
After TBI, serial SSEP measures may promote early detection of intracranial hypertension or herniation. As a result of these multifaceted roles, EEG and SSEP have achieved a significant role in neurocritical care. Required Author Forms Disclosure forms provided by the authors are available with the online version of this article.
What is SSEP monitoring and why is it important?
SSEP monitoring assess the signal that is sent to the brain and provides real-time feedback to the neuromonitorist. Evaluating these signals are crucial to IONM, because these tests inform the neuromonitorist and surgeon when a sensitive, high-risk region has been compressed or is in danger of being compromised.