Evoked Potential Testing
Evoked potential testing is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic procedure that measures the brain’s electrical activity in response to specific sensory stimuli. These stimuli can include visual patterns, auditory tones, or mild electrical pulses applied to the skin. By assessing how quickly and accurately the brain and spinal cord respond, this testing can help identify disruptions along nerve pathways. At Covenant Spine and Neurology, evoked potential studies are an important part of evaluating conditions that affect the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and optic neuritis.
Types of Evoked Potential Tests
There are three main types of evoked potential testing. Visual evoked potentials (VEP) evaluate the brain’s response to visual patterns and can detect issues in the optic nerve or visual pathways. Brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEP) measure how sound signals travel from the ear to the brainstem, helping identify auditory nerve or brainstem abnormalities. Somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP) assess the nerve pathways from the limbs to the spinal cord and brain, often used in diagnosing spinal cord or nerve root problems.
Why Evoked Potential Testing is Valuable
Evoked potentials provide information about nerve function that is not always visible on imaging studies like MRIs. By capturing real-time data on how well nerve signals travel, these tests can detect subtle abnormalities and reveal early signs of neurological conditions. This makes them especially valuable for diagnosing early-stage disease, monitoring progression, and evaluating the effectiveness of ongoing treatment.
What to Expect During the Test
The procedure is non-invasive and typically involves placing small electrodes on the scalp and other relevant areas of the body. These electrodes record the brain’s responses to the applied stimuli. The process is painless, and most tests take less than an hour to complete. Results are analyzed by our specialists to help guide accurate diagnosis and tailored care.
Schedule Your Evoked Potential Test
If you are experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms or have been advised to undergo additional testing, evoked potential studies may provide important answers. Contact Covenant Spine and Neurology today to schedule your appointment and gain a deeper understanding of your nerve function and overall neurological health.
Book Your Appointment Now
For more information or to schedule an appointment call us at 336-761-4020.