Procedures in The World of Neurology
Understanding Your Neurology Tests
These tests help us learn how your brain, nerves, and blood flow are functioning. Most are non-invasive, and we’ll guide you through each step.
Click a test to learn more
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EEGEEG
Records brain wave activity.
EEG
Records brain wave activity.
What it isRecords brain electrical activity using small sensors (electrodes) on the scalp.
Why it’s orderedHelps evaluate spells or episodes where brain-wave patterns may add information.
What to expectElectrodes are applied with paste/gel. You rest quietly. You may be asked to open/close eyes, breathe deeply, and/or view flashing lights if appropriate.
How to prepareArrive with clean, dry hair; avoid oils/sprays. Take medications unless you were told otherwise.
AEEGAEEG (Ambulatory EEG)
Longer EEG recording in everyday settings.
AEEG (Ambulatory EEG)
Longer EEG recording in everyday settings.
What it isEEG recorded over a longer period (commonly 24–72 hours) while you go about your day with instructions.
Why it’s orderedHelps capture intermittent symptoms that may not appear during a shorter study.
What to expectElectrodes connect to a small recorder. You may keep an event diary; some setups include video.
Important tipsKeep equipment dry. Avoid showering/swimming unless permitted. Call if a lead loosens.
MRIMRI Brain
Imaging of the brain (no radiation).
MRI Brain
Imaging of the brain (no radiation).
Body areaHead / brain.
What it isDetailed imaging using a magnet and radio waves (no X-ray radiation).
What to expectYou lie on a table that slides into the scanner. It’s loud; ear protection is provided. Staying still helps image quality.
Contrast vs. no contrastIf ordered, contrast is given by IV to add detail. The imaging center screens for kidney concerns and prior reactions.
MRIMRI Cervical Spine
Imaging of the neck / upper spine.
MRI Cervical Spine
Imaging of the neck / upper spine.
Body areaNeck / upper spine.
What it isMRI focused on the cervical spine (no X-ray radiation).
What to expectSimilar to other MRI scans: scanner noise, ear protection, and the need to stay still. Contrast only if ordered.
Why it’s orderedOften used when symptoms suggest nerve/spine involvement affecting the neck, arms, or hands.
MRIMRI Thoracic Spine
Imaging of the mid/upper back spine.
MRI Thoracic Spine
Imaging of the mid/upper back spine.
Body areaMid/upper back spine.
What it isMRI focused on the thoracic spine (no X-ray radiation).
What to expectScanner noise, ear protection, and the need to stay still. Contrast only if ordered.
Why it’s orderedUsed when symptoms/exam findings suggest the thoracic spine may be relevant.
MRAMRA
MRI technique focused on blood vessels.
MRA
MRI technique focused on blood vessels.
What it isAn MRI technique focused on blood vessels (often head and/or neck).
Contrast vs. no contrastMany MRAs are done without contrast, but some use IV contrast—your order specifies which.
What to expectLike an MRI: loud sounds, ear protection, and the need to stay still.
TimeOften 20–60 minutes, depending on protocol.
TCDTCD
Ultrasound measuring blood flow in brain arteries.
TCD
Ultrasound measuring blood flow in brain arteries.
What it isAn ultrasound test that measures blood flow in certain brain arteries.
What to expectA small probe is placed against the head/neck with gel. The technologist may reposition the probe to get measurements.
How it feelsUsually painless; you may feel light pressure and cool gel.
TimeOften 30–60 minutes.
EMGNCV / EMG
Evaluates nerves and muscles.
NCV / EMG
Evaluates nerves and muscles.
What it isNCV measures nerve conduction; EMG may use a small needle to record muscle activity (when ordered).
What to expectSurface electrodes + brief pulses for NCV. EMG may include a needle in selected muscles.
How to prepareAvoid lotions/oils that day. Wear loose clothing. Ask about blood thinners if you take them.
TimeOften 30–90 minutes.
NTXNeuroTrax
Computer-based cognitive testing.
NeuroTrax
Computer-based cognitive testing.
What it isGuided computer-based tasks that assess attention, memory, and processing speed.
What to expectA series of tasks with guidance. Breaks are available.
How to prepareBring glasses/hearing aids if you use them; arrive rested if possible.
TimeOften 30–60 minutes.
DATDAT Scan
Specialized nuclear medicine scan (selected cases).
DAT Scan
Specialized nuclear medicine scan (selected cases).
What it isA specialized nuclear medicine scan used in selected cases to support evaluation of certain movement disorders.
What to expectThe imaging facility follows a specific protocol (tracer + imaging). Timing may include a waiting period.
How to prepareFollow facility instructions and bring a medication list. Tell them about allergies and pregnancy status if applicable.
TimeVaries by facility protocol.
PETPET Scan
Nuclear medicine imaging (selected cases).
PET Scan
Nuclear medicine imaging (selected cases).
What it isA nuclear medicine scan used in selected neurologic evaluations to add information beyond structural imaging.
What to expectOften includes tracer injection and a rest period before imaging. The facility guides timing.
How to prepareFollow facility instructions (diet/med guidance varies by scan type). Bring a medication list.
TimeVaries by facility protocol.
BIOSkin Biopsy (Small Fiber Neuropathy)
Evaluates small nerve fibers in skin.
Skin Biopsy (Small Fiber Neuropathy)
Evaluates small nerve fibers in skin.
What it isA tiny skin sample used to evaluate small nerve fibers under a microscope.
What to expectThe area is numbed, a small sample is taken, and a bandage is placed.
How it feelsOften a brief sting from numbing medicine; afterward usually mild soreness.
AftercareKeep the site clean/covered as instructed. Healing is typically uncomplicated.
BIOSkin Biopsy (Parkinson’s Support)
May add supporting information (selected cases).
Skin Biopsy (Parkinson’s Support)
May add supporting information (selected cases).
What it isA small skin sample used in selected cases to provide supporting information as part of a broader assessment.
What to expectSimilar process: numbing medicine, small sample, bandage.
How it feelsBrief sting from numbing medicine; usually mild soreness afterward.
Important noteResults are interpreted in clinical context—no single test is used alone.
With contrast vs. without contrast
Contrast is only used when it’s clinically helpful. Your order will specify whether contrast is needed.
Without contrast
- No IV dye.
- Excellent for many brain/spine questions.
- Often quicker and simpler.
With contrast
- IV dye may help highlight certain tissues or vessels.
- Used when it improves diagnostic clarity.
- The imaging facility reviews safety questions before giving it.