Tests & Procedures

Test shows: normal and abnormal brain waves and is used to determine in if brain is functioning/transmitting normally.

What to expect: small electrodes will be placed with a “toothpaste like” material on your scalp; you will lie quietly for 30 minutes, depending upon types of testing. Various stimulates such as a flashing light, deep breathing or sound may be presented to patient to track reaction of brain waves.

Preparation for test: specific instructions will be given by referring physician regarding eating or sleeping prior to tests; however, all patients need to avoid caffeine and dress in loose comfortable clothing, appropriate for lying down for an extended period of time.

There are two additional types of EEG testing in addition to the basic evaluation: (1) Intensive monitoring: continuous EEG monitoring as described above. (2) Ambulatory monitoring: continuous EEG monitoring as an outpatient; a portable recording device is worn by the patient for the duration of the testing, usually several days.

Test shows: photographs showing layer by layer images of soft body tissue such as the brain, in minute detail. Contrasting dye is sometimes used during the procedure to detect abnormalities.

What to expect: an MRI machine can be a more “closed” tube or have the appearance of being flatter and “open” on the sides. Patients generally wear a hospital gown, lie down and must remove all metal objects from their bodies. The test takes approximately one hour in duration; at times dependent upon the patient’s ability to remain motionless while images are being taken. Some patients may be given a mild sedative.

Preparation for test: Many patients find it helpful to go to the bathroom prior to testing as they will need to lie still for the duration of the test. Any other specific instructions regarding eating and/or drinking prior to testing will be given by your physician.

Test shows: layer by layer images of the inside of the body, both soft tissue and bone. This test experience differs only slightly from the MRI, but from the physician’s viewpoint provides different diagnostic information.

What to expect: patients will lie down, generally in a hospital gown while the CT scanner takes pictures of the designated area of the body. The actual test will last from 20 minutes to about an hour depending upon the type of images needed and the patient’s ability to remain motionless. Some patients may be given a mild sedative.

Preparation for test: Many patients find it helpful to go to the bathroom prior to testing as they will need to lie still for the duration of the test. Any other specific instructions regarding eating and/or drinking prior to testing will be given by your physician.

Test Shows: level of response or non-response of various parts of the body by stimulating the nerves in certain body areas, followed by evaluation of the muscle.

What to Expect: patients lie on an exam bed in the physician’s office during the test. Electrodes are attached with a pasty cream on arms, hands and/or feet depending upon the condition being evaluated; because the nerves are stimulated through mild electrical shock, some discomfort can be expected during this test. A thin, small disposable needle is gently inserted into specific muscles or muscle groups for the evaluation. The actual test is generally 30 – 45 minutes in duration.

Preparation for Test: patients should wear loose, comfortable clothing to allow for electrode attachment; use the bathroom prior to testing. Patients should not use any creams, gels or lotions on their arms or legs the day of the test.

Purpose: depending upon the medical condition, this procedure may treat chronic neck and back pain, migraine & headache disorders or various spasticity conditions.

What to expect: a small, thin needle containing BOTOX is injected into the affected areas. Many times, multiple injections during one session are needed; patients can expect some discomfort.

Preparation for Procedure: in the majority of cases, no special preparation is needed prior to injections. For more information go to www.botox.com or call (800)44BOTOX.

Purpose: reduces the inflammation and swelling of tissue around the occipital nerves. This may in turn reduce pain, and other symptoms caused by inflammation or irritation of the nerves and surrounding structures.

What to expect: a small, thin needle injection of a steroid or other medication around the greater and lesser occipital nerves that is located on the back of the head just above the neck area. The steroid injected reduces the inflammation and swelling of tissue around the occipital nerves. This may in turn reduce pain, and other symptoms caused by inflammation or irritation of the nerves and surrounding structures. Typically, headaches over the back of the head, including certain types of tension headaches and migraine headaches, may respond to occipital nerve blocks.

Preparation for Procedure: in the majority of cases, no special preparation is needed prior to injections.

In order for the doctor to make a more accurate diagnosis, testing is required. Ultrasound is one of the tests available to accurately diagnose a patient’s condition.

You can get tested and undergo a number of procedures at Lone Star Neurology. Our highly qualified specialists have a record of delivering reliable accurate results utilizing modern equipment. Appointments can be made easily and conveniently with the appropriate specialist by contacting our office via Phone 214-619-1910.

Most testing will be conducted in the office with our physicians or by nearby outpatient testing facilities.