Eletroencephalography I

Knowledge on neuroanatomy and neurophysiology.

For the theoretical and theoretical-practical components, an active-expository method will be used, with different resources, such as slides, videos and texts.

The practical component will include the application of surface electrodes for the execution of electroencephalogram, practical application of the contents of theoretical-practical classes and the use of electroencephalography equipment in associated software.

The student must acquire knowledge on:

– Origin of electroencephalographic signal (EEG);
– Distinguish normal characteristics of the EEG signal from wakefulness and sleep in adults and children; – Existence and origin of multiple interferences (artifacts) during the EEG acquisition;
– Distinguish normal EEG patterns from benign variants in adults and children;
– Recognize and classify pathological EEG patterns in adults and children.

The student must acquire the skills and competencies on:

– Perform an EEG, developing the necessary methodology for patient preparation and electrode placement, following the International 10-20 System and the latest recommendations of the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology (IFCN);
– Optimize the placement of electrodes, particularly in low-cooperating patients;
– Analyze and integrate the results of an EEG in the clinical context, knowing the usefulness and limitations of this complementary diagnostic exam in the study of neurological and systemic pathologies;
– Act according to professional ethics.

Theoretical and theoretical-practical contents:

– Historical perspective and origin of electroencephalographic recording (EEG);
– Neurophysiological basis and neuroanatomical basis of the EEG signal;
– The most important clinical indications of the EEG;
– Specificity and sensitivity, positive and negative predictive value;
– The International System 10-20 and the recommendation of the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology (IFCN);
– Montages and signal filtering;
– EEG patterns: an orderly approach to visual analysis;
– The main brain rhythms and benign variants, awake and asleep;
– Artifacts;
– Activation methods (hyperventilation and intermittent photic stimulation) and expected responses (normal and pathological);

Practical contents:

– Application of surface electrodes according to the International 10-20 System and the IFCN latest recommendations;
– Recording the electroencephalogram and performing activation tests;
– Identification and eliminate the most common artefactual activities;
– Preparation of a technical report on the electroencephalogram.

NAO