Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique used to create detailed images of the brain and spinal cord. MRI machines use a very large magnet to temporarily align water molecules in your body, and radio waves then are used to create the detailed pictures, which can be scrolled through like flipping through a picture book on a high-resolution monitor.

The test may last from 15 to 45 minutes.    You must lie still for the procedure. A technologist will monitor and talk to you by microphone.  You can expect to hear a repetitive tapping sound during the procedure. Some people with claustrophobia may require light sedation during procedure. IV contrast dye (gadolinium) is often used during the test in order to get the most detailed images.  Tell the doctor if you are claustrophobic, allergic to gadolinium dye, or have kidney problems.

Computerized tomography (CT) uses ionizing radiation much like an X-ray in order to produce pictures, which can be scrolled through like flipping through a picture book on a high-resolution monitor.  CT produces much less detailed imaging than an MRI.  However, it is useful for screening and finding more obvious changes in the structure of the brain.

The test may last from 5 to 10 minutes.  You must lie still for the procedure.  The technologist will monitor and talk to you at the scanner or by microphone.  You can expect to hear a whirling sound during the procedure. IV contrast dye (iodine) is often used in order to get the most detailed images. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to iodine or have kidney problems.

Doppler Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves not audible to humans in order to produce images of structures inside the body.  A neurologist uses this imaging method in order to visualize flow through blood vessels, commonly the carotid arteries, and to look for blockages.   

The test may last from 15 to 30 minutes.  During the test, a technician uses a probe (hand-held device) to press on the skin. Gel is used in order to allow the probe to move smoothly across the skin. 

Electroencephalography (EEG) uses electrodes on the scalp in order to detect the activity of the brain. A neurologist uses this test in order to diagnose seizures and other abnormalities of brain function.

The procedure may last from 30 to 45 minutes.  During the procedure, small metal pads are placed on the scalp, which are connected to wires.  The electrical activity of the brain is then displayed on a monitor.

Ambulatory Video EEG (VEEG) uses electrodes on the scalp in order to detect the activity of the brain in the comfort of your own home or at work.  A camera is used in the home during the procedure to create an audio-visual recording of your body movements during the study.  This provides a way for the neurologist to match your brain activity with your body movements.  A neurologist uses this test in order to diagnose seizures and other abnormalities of sleep and brain function.  

The procedure may last from 3 to 7 days.  During the procedure, small metal pads are placed on the scalp, which are connected to wires.  The electrical activity of the brain is then displayed on a monitor, along with the audio-visual recording. 

Electromyography (EMG) uses a needle electrode to detect muscle activity. EMG is used to diagnose nerve, nerve-muscle junction, and muscle disorders.  A nerve conduction study (NCS) uses electrical impulses to detect the condition of a nerve as a signal is transmitted through that nerve. EMG and NCS are often performed together by a neurologist in order to determine the health of the muscles and nerves. 

The procedure may last from 30 to 45 minutes. During the procedure, a technician uses a stimulator (hand-held device) to press on the skin of the arm or leg. Gel is used in order to allow the stimulator to produce a small amount of electrical current through the skin and to the nerve.  A neurologist will then perform the EMG needle study. During this part of the procedure, a needle electrode is used in order to detect abnormal activity inside a muscle. The procedure is very tolerable to patients.