Overview:
At Horizon TBI & Brain Center, we use a non-invasive medical device called quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG) to diagnose traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and mental health conditions. Our 19-lead qEEG measures the brain’s electrical activity and helps us identify abnormalities and dysregulated brain wave frequencies.
In cases of TBI, the qEEG can identify specific patterns indicative of brain dysfunction, such as abnormal brain waves or reduced connectivity between brain areas (Gosselin et al., 2016). Similarly, for mental health conditions, the qEEG helps recognize deviations from normal brain activity associated with disorders like depression, anxiety, or ADHD (Arns et al., 2016).
What is a qEEG
Quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) is a method used to measure and analyze electrical brain activity. It involves the recording and analysis of the brain’s electrical signals, typically obtained through scalp electrodes. The signals are then processed and quantified using various mathematical algorithms to extract valuable information about brain function.
qEEG provides insights into the different frequency bands (e.g., delta, theta, alpha, beta, gamma) and their relative amplitudes in specific brain regions. It also examines the interconnections and coherence between different brain regions, revealing patterns of functional connectivity.
By comparing qEEG data to a normative database or healthy controls, clinicians and researchers can identify deviations or abnormalities in brainwave patterns. These deviations can be indicative of neurological disorders, cognitive impairments, psychiatric conditions, or other brain dysfunctions.
The information obtained from qEEG analysis is often represented visually in the form of brain maps or topographic displays. These maps display the electrical activity and connectivity patterns across different brain regions, providing a comprehensive view of the brain’s functioning.
qEEG and its corresponding brain maps have diverse applications in clinical settings. They can aid in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning for various conditions such as traumatic brain injury (TBI), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), epilepsy, sleep disorders, and mental health disorders.
In summary, qEEG is a quantitative analysis of the electrical brain activity obtained through scalp electrodes. It provides valuable information about brain function and connectivity, which can assist in understanding and addressing various neurological and psychiatric conditions.
qEEG Specific to Traumatic Brain Injuries
A qEEG helps to identify areas of the brain where any dysregulation may have occurred after an MVC or traumatic event resulting in a TBI. A qEEG evaluates a person’s brainwave patterns objectively and scientifically. Think of a qEEG Brain map like an EKG recording… it provides us with accurate information about the entire brain and where problems may lie.
A qEEG generates a recording of your brain’s electrical activity through tiny sensors at different parts of your brain.
After an MVC, we use a specific computerized qEEG TBI protocol with TBI biomarkers to record brainwave activity and determine the severity of the TBI (mild, moderate, severe). The results will pinpoint precisely where the TBI occurred in the brain, indicating the deficits that may present themselves.
How It Works
A qEEG recording of your brain wave activity typically takes less than 30 minutes. We record your brain wave activity with your eyes open and closed, which provides enough raw data to formulate a diagnosis and determine where any dysregulation may occur in your brain.
We place you in a comfortable chair, it is essential that you relax as much as possible and limit your movement in the chair. Avoid excessive swallowing, and minimize any form of muscle tension as much as possible. It often helps to imagine and place yourself in the most relaxing frame of mind; as if you are on the beach or getting a massage.
The results are then analyzed to create a multi-color brain map, which we will review with you, in person, at your next appointment.
