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Department of Neurology


The department of Neurology is one of the finest in town with highly qualified senior consultants, and backed by a state-of-the-art clinical neurophysiology lab (EMG, NCV, EEG, Evoked Potentials), neuroradiology including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), digital subtraction angiography (DSA), extracranial and intracranial vascular Doppler, single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and interventional neuroradiology and excellent neuropathological backup, the department is equipped to manage any neurological disorder. State-of-the-art critical care units (CCU) are geared to deal rapidly with 'brain attack' and other neurological emergencies round the clock. A physiotherapy and rehabilitation department offers exceptional neuro rehabilitation to help stricken patients overcome their disabilities.
Departments


Clinical Neurophysiologic Services (Electrodiagnosis)


Electrodiagnostic studies can be helpful in evaluating weakness, numbness, pain and symptoms such as fatigue, cramps and abnormal sensation. Electrodiagnostic evaluation is an extension of the neurologist's physical examination and is performed by our clinical neuropysiologist who is a neurologist with special training in clinical neurophysiology. The time required to complete the study generally takes approximately 60 to 120 minutes. The two main procedures used to study nerves and muscles are needle electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity studies (NCV).

EMG
During an EMG, the neurologist analyses the electric activity in muscles by inserting a fine needle electrode into selected muscles. Needle insertion may cause mild temporary discomfort. The needle is not used for injection and no shocks are given. The physician can determine whether the muscle is working normally by seeing the electric activity on a screen and listening over a loudspeaker. The needles are discarded after use or sterilized to prevent the transmission of AIDS, hepatitis and other infections.


NCV
To perform nerve conduction studies, the physician tapes small metal electrodes on the skin and applies a brief electric stimulus to one portion of a nerve. Nerve stimulation will cause a tingling sensation. The physician can then evaluate the electric response of the nerve or muscle to which the nerve is attached and determine if the nerve impulse is a) conducted normally, b) at a slow speed or c) not transmitted at all, suggesting damage to the nerve.


Evoked Potentials
Electrodiagnosis may also include a number of other tests, such as evoked potentials. These studies use different stimuli, such as auditory clicks, a changing visual pattern such as a checkerboard, or small electric stimuli applied to specific nerves. The recordings are made over the surface of the head and the spine to evaluate whether the sensory impulses are conducting normally through the nerves, spinal cord or brain.