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Evoked potentials
evoked potentials · visual evoked potentials · VEP · SSEP · brainstem auditory evoked response
The doctor shows you pictures, plays sounds, or gives weak pulses to your arm or leg. Electrodes on your head record how fast the signal reaches the brain.
For problems with vision, hearing, or feeling, for a possible nervous system disease, or to check the nerves.
⏱ Duration: usually 30 to 90 minutes; the report is usually ready in 1 to 3 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Hair. Wash your hair the day before, with no oil or hairspray.
- Glasses. Bring your glasses or contact lenses, if you wear them.
- Wellbeing. Get a good night's sleep. You can eat in the morning.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Glasses or contact lenses
- A list of your medicines
- Past neurologist reports
How it goes
- Electrodes are put on your head, and sometimes on an arm or leg
- For vision: you look at a screen with a checkerboard
- For hearing: you wear headphones with clicking sounds
- For feeling: weak pulses are given to an arm or leg
- You need to sit still and pay attention
- The electrodes are removed
What you'll feel
- The pictures and sounds do not hurt
- The pulses feel like light tingling or a finger twitching
Afterwards
- You can go back to your usual day right away
- Wash your hair at home
- The report is usually ready in 1 to 3 days
Common questions
Do the pulses hurt?
They are weak and feel like tingling. The strength is set so it is bearable.
Can I wear glasses during the test?
Yes, and you should. Bring your own glasses or lenses.