The Right Treatment Starts with the Right Diagnosis

Specific Procedures Include:

• Electrocardiogram Detailed information on electrocardiogram, including the reasons and preparation for the procedure, how the procedure is performed, and after care.

  Electromyography Detailed information on electromyography (EMG), including the reasons and preparation for the procedure, how the procedure is performed, and after care.

  Electroencephalogram Detailed information on electroencephalogram (EEG), including the reasons and preparation for the procedure, how the procedure is performed, and after care.

  Electrocardiogram (EKG) records, on graph paper, the electrical impulses traveling through the heart. The purpose is to evaluate the heart’s function, to determine the presence of abnormal electrical impulses and to detect heart damage.
   
• Nerve conduction studies (NSC) and Electromyography (EMG) are tests that measure muscle and nerve functions. In most cases, both tests are performed. NCS is often done first. During NCS, mild electrical currents are applied to the skin to see how quickly impulses travel between nerves. EMG will assess muscle function. To do this, a fine needle is placed under the skin and into the muscle being tested. The needle allows the electrical activity in the muscles to be measured; however, no electrical currents are applied with the needle. During each test, wavy lines (waveforms) appear on a screen or paper to indicate how well nerves and muscles are working.
   
• Electroencephalography (EEG) is a test that measures brain-wave activity (brain function). A physician may order this test to check for brain seizures or other brain-related problems. For this test, small metal disks (electrodes) are attached to the scalp with glue, water-based gel or paste. During the test, waveforms appear on a screen or paper that will later be studied to assess brain function.

For more information on preparation for these procedures, what to expect during a test and what to do following a test, please call 601-268-8000.