This is specialist service. We are one of only three Trusts to provide this service in the North East. It helps us to check how well the brain, spinal cord and its nerves and muscles are working. It helps us to find problems with the nervous system.
What do we test for?
We use specialist kit to explore what is going on in your brain and nervous system. The different types of test we do are below.
This uses a small device placed on the scalp to record brain activity. There are lots of different types of EEG test:
- Routine electroencephalography (EEG)
- Sleep deprived EEG
- Neonatal EEG recording
- EEG with sedation
- Portable EEG (bedside recording for in-patients unable to transfer to the dept)
- Video telemetry (EEG test which lasts typically up to 6 hours).
This tests how the brain reacts to different sounds or visual prompts. This is an Evoked potentials (EP) test. There are three different types:
- VEP (Visual): This tests the visual pathway and the nerves connecting the eyes to the brain.
- SSEP (Sensory): This tests the sensory pathways in the arms, legs, and spinal cord.
- BAEP (Brainstem Auditory): This tests the nerves which connect the ears to the brain.
Using electrical signals to see how well your nerves and muscles work. This is an EMG test. There are different types of EMG test:
- Electromyography (EMG) including complex studies
- Single Fibre EMG (SFEMG)
- Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)
How do I access this service?
To access this service, you will need to go through your GP first. They will refer you to us for tests. Other consultants and hospitals can also refer you for tests with us to help find out what is wrong.
Who will look after me?
We have a fantastic team of Clinical Physiologists. They are experts in the field of Neurophysiology and will do all the tests you need.
Our Department Manager is Debra Young. The team works closely with the wider clinical team to look after patients. Dr Richard Jones, is the lead Consultant Neurologist for this service.
Once we have done your tests and work out what the problem is, we will discuss a treatment plan with you.
Where will my treatment take place?
If you need to come for an outpatient clinic or test, this will be at Sunderland Royal Hospital (click here).
We also provide an outreach service. This is where our expert team goes to assess patients on the wards. We cover our own hospitals as well as other hospitals in the North East.
Where can I find out more?
- The British Society for Clinical Neurophysiology - click here.
- The Association of Neurophysiological Scientists - click here.
