Diagnostic Neurophysiology (EEG & EMG)

We do more than 25 tests on the brains, nerves and muscles of children

About

We are usually called the EEG Department because the most common test is an EEG (electroencephalogram). Each test can help with your child's diagnosis.

Types of tests

Electroencephalography (EEG)
Ambulatory EEG monitoring (AM)
Intensive video-EEG monitoring (IM)
Electromyography (EMG) & nerve conduction study (NC)
Evoked potentials (EP), including:

Visual evoked potential (VEP)
Brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER)
Somatosensory evoked potential (SEP)

Intraoperative monitoring (IOM)

Some tests require children to be sleep deprived or sedated.

Sleep deprivation instructions
Sedation instructions

collage of photos of children

Internet access

There is free wireless internet available. The network is called CWguest (agree to the terms and conditions prior to browsing).

About us

We work very closely with Neurology, Neurosurgery, Neuropsychology and Orthopedics.

We provide services for inpatients at BC Children's Hospital, Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children, and BC Women's Hospital.

We provide outpatient services for children from all areas of BC and the Yukon.

Prepare

How parents can help

Most tests require children to be sleep deprived or sedated.

Sleep Deprivation instructions
Sedation instructions

Follow the appropriate preparation instructions for the type of EEG test.

Do not be late for your appointment. It is very important to be on time! Please try to arrive 15 minutes before the test to find parking and check in with us. Being late for your appointment cuts into your child's testing time.

If you have a 7:00 AM appointment or are late for your appointment, go directly to the EEG Department.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What if my child doesn't sleep?

If sleep was necessary, the EEG will need to be repeated. It is entirely up to the referring doctor.

How long does the EEG take to complete?

The entire appointment will last approximately 60-90 minutes.

Can the technologist give me the result?

No, the technologist cannot give you the result. A copy of the report will be sent to the referring doctor who will then give you the result.

Can I be with my child during the test?

Generally, we find that children cooperate better without a parent in the room. However, for most tests, you can request to stay. Remember that most children take cues from their parents. If you are feeling anxious or upset, then your child probably will too.

Does the EEG hurt?

No. Even babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) have this test done.

Does the EEG put anything in my child's head?

No.

Is the EEG harmful?

No. Children can and do have many, many EEGs.

Follow-up

Test results

Your technologist cannot give you the results of your child's test. A copy of the report will be sent to the referring doctor who will then give you the result. All tests must be interpreted by a doctor in our department.

A written report will be sent by mail to the doctor who referred you.

If your doctor needs the results sooner, the doctor's office can ask for a verbal or faxed result.

Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss the results.

Provincial Health Services Authority