Video Telemetry

Your consultant would like you to have an Video Telemetry investigation.

 

What is video telemetry? 

 

This is continuous Electroencephalogram (EEG) and video monitoring which records until sufficient information is obtained and can last up to 7 days.

Recording this information will help your consultant in the  diagnosis and management of your complaint or condition.

Video Telemetry is used to investigate a number of different conditions.

You will be admitted into a single private room with use of a private bathroom.

Once the investigation has started you will be unable to leave the room until it is complete.

 

A Clinical Physiologist will perform the test and staff in training may be present during your investigation, this will be explained at the time of your appointment and consent for this will be discussed with you

 

What should I do before the test?

Please ensure your hair is clean and do not use any hair products such as gel or hairspray, as you will be unable to wash or brush it for the duration of the test. If you have extensive hair extensions/weave these will need to be removed prior to your EEG.

 

Wear loose fitting clothing/ nightwear to allow you to change easily

 

You should take your medication as normal and please bring along a written list of your current medication

 

You are welcome to bring a friend or relative to accompany you to your           appointment.

 

You may wish to bring a laptop/tablet, there is free Wi-Fi available. There is a television in the room which is available for you to use free of charge.

 

What will happen during the test?

 

• The physiologist will fully explain the test to you and answer any questions you may have. They will take a clinical history from you and ask you to sign a consent form for the video recording.

 

• You will have 21 electrodes applied to the scalp, which will be glued on for the duration .The electrodes will be attached to a recording box that will be placed in a small pouch attached to a belt around the waist. This will be attached by a cable to a computer in your room.

 

• We ask that you try and stay on the bed as much as possible to ensure you stay safe and on camera.

 

• During your admission you may also be asked to sleep deprive by staying awake for one night, perform a breathing exercise and look at a flashing light. The Clinical Physiologist looking after you will explain this in more detail during your stay and obtain your consent.

 

• Your anti-epileptic medication may be reduced during your admission to make capturing events more likely. This will be discussed with you by your doctor prior to or during your stay

 

• The aim of this test is to capture 2-3 of your typical events therefore the test usually takes 5-7 days.

 

• If sufficient events are captured during the monitoring, the equipment may be removed earlier than first anticipated.

 

• Smoking is prohibited in the Telemetry room and hospital, once the test starts you will not be able to leave the premises for a cigarette. If you choose to do so the test will be terminated.

 

 

Are there any risks? 

You may have more attacks than normal if your anti-epileptic medication is reduced.

 

There is a very small chance that sleep deprivation, the breathing exercise or the flashing light could result in a seizure or clinical event.

 

What happens after the test?

Once the Consultant has enough information, the electrodes will be         removed using a solution, which dissolves the glue, and your hair will need washing afterwards.

 

If you have had your medication reduced or stopped during the monitoring you may be required to stay on the ward for 1-2 days following the end of the test.

 

 

You will not be told any results following the test. The results take 2-3 weeks and your Consultant will discuss them with you at your next out patient appointment.

 

In rare circumstances you may develop small sore areas on the skin where the electrodes have been applied. Following discharge if you have any concerns seek advice from a pharmacy or your GP if necessary.

 

If you are unable to attend this appointment , have any

specific requirements or questions please ring

0151 556 3416 as soon as possible.

 

Patient co-operation is required for the duration of the test; if due to a learning disability you feel more time is needed, please contact the department .In addition we can also provide a visit to the department in advance of the appointment for   patients who may require it to familiarize yourself with the   surroundings and staff.

 

We can provide this information leaflet in larger fonts or audio format via email if required, please phone the number above