What Is Video EEG Monitoring and How Does It Work?

Published 2/14/2025

Neurotech EEG Technician with Patient at Home

A video EEG (electroencephalograph) is a specialized test that combines continuous video recording with EEG monitoring. This allows technicians to visually observe the patient when a seizure occurs. Comparing EEG readings with video will help determine the type of seizure and its frequency. Not only can a video EEG (vEEG) record the electrical activities of the brain, but it can also pick up sounds from the patient. Doctors utilize video EEG monitoring to tell if events are related to abnormal brain activity and epilepsy.

Where Does Video EEG Monitoring Take Place?

Video EEG testing can take place in several settings, including hospitals, at home, or at outpatient centers. Depending on the patient, one option may offer more benefits than others. Hospital video EEG monitoring ensures safety and can better provoke seizures using medication or triggers. Generally, there are numerous safety steps taken when performing video EEG tests in hospitals and outpatient centers, including:

Nearby staff members - Hospital staff members are highly trained and can assist patients undergoing EEG monitoring. They may help you get up and walk around, or they can assist in adjusting equipment.
Bedside pads - Hospitals are equipped with beds that have side rails and pads that keep patients from falling or hurting themselves. During seizures, it is common for people to hit the side rails with their arms or legs during a seizure. Bedside pads help protect the patient.
Oxygen and safety equipment - Hospitals and outpatient centers have immediate access to oxygen, suction machines, and other safety tools that allow the medical team to respond quickly if complications arise.

Joint Commission Accredited companies like Neurotech offer in-home video EEG monitoring, which enables patients to be in their natural environment. This can be extremely helpful to those who have trouble traveling. Patients are generally more comfortable taking video EEG tests at home. Other benefits include unrestricted test duration and the increased ability to catch naturally occurring seizure triggers. At home, Video EEG monitoring does not hinder test quality. Neurotech's in-home EEG monitoring service can include a visit by a technician to properly set up your home for testing.

How Does Video EEG Monitoring Work?

There are a few differences between standard EEGs and Video EEGs. Video EEG monitoring usually require extra steps to record seizure activity. Much like standard EEG monitoring, it begins with setting up electrodes on the patient's scalp. This is done by using special pastes like collodion that help keep the electrodes in place. Depending on the setting, patients can be admitted to an Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) or may be set up at home. These areas are where video cameras are placed for proper recordings.

Patients are then connected to EEG monitoring equipment via wires. The wires transmit the brainwave data to a monitor for analysis. Paired with video, more details will be obtained by medical technicians. Details that can help diagnosis with video EEG monitoring include:

Physical movements
Facial expressions
Sounds
Unresponsive behavior

How Long Does Video EEG Monitoring Take?

A video EEG test can take anywhere from 6 hours to 7 days. The duration can vary depending on the purpose of the test. In most cases, a typical video EEG test is performed over a period of 24 - 48 hours. This gives doctors plenty of data to evaluate seizure activity. For patients who have infrequent seizures, video EEG monitoring can last up to 7 days. Long-term monitoring is common for patients who are being considered for epilepsy surgery. Other factors that can influence how long a video EEG test takes are:

Medications
Sleep deprivation
Patient response
Seizure type

Do I Need Someone with Me During Video EEG Monitoring?

It's generally recommended to have a family member or friend stay with you or nearby during video EEG monitoring. The reason is that if you are unaware that you are having a seizure, so the person will be able to alert someone for you. Neurotech's EEG monitoring technicians can also assist in these scenarios. If you're admitted into a hospital, many facilities will provide your person with a sleeper chair that can unfold to a flat surface.

What Should I Bring to an In-Hospital Video EEG Monitoring Appointment?

For in-hospital video EEG monitoring, it's important to bring your medications. It's also recommended to bring button-down shirts because you will not be able to pull your shirt over your head. Some patients bring quiet activities such as books and puzzles. For added comfort, you can bring in your favorite pillow or blanket. The medical staff may also ask to shut off electronic devices during video EEG testing. We recommend consulting your EEG technician for more information regarding items to bring to your appointment.

Can Caffeine Affect the Video EEG Monitoring?

Caffeine is known to increase brainwave activity, which can potentially impact your EEG test results. Drinking these types of drinks can also interfere with sleep deprivation triggers. A common suggestion is to not have caffeine for 8 hours or the day of your video EEG monitoring appointment.

Why Choose Neurotech for Video EEG Monitoring

Neurotech is the leading EEG monitoring company because of its commitment to quality and accessible recordings. Patients who cannot drive or live in rural areas can take advantage of Neurotech's EEG monitoring services in the comfort of their own homes. With the use of a highly secure physician web portal, the medical professional will be able to access and interpret the EEG data remotely. Consult with the Neurotech team today and ask all of your questions about video EEG monitoring services or visit our patient FAQ section to learn more.