Electroencephalography (EEG) stands as a pivotal instrument in the study of brain activity, marking a century since its inception by the German physiologist Hans Berger. This non-invasive technique provides crucial insights into brain functions, transforming both clinical and research landscapes.
The foundation of EEG was rooted in late 19th-century discoveries by Richard Caton and Adolf Beck, who observed electrical activity in animal brains. In 1924, Hans Berger advanced this knowledge by capturing the first human EEG, demonstrating its clinical significance.
EEG, an acronym for electroencephalography, involves capturing brain electrical activity through scalp electrodes. Neurons produce electrical signals by ion movement, which EEG electrodes detect, creating a visual portrayal of brain functions.
Clinically, EEG is paramount for diagnosing epilepsy and is employed to track anesthesia, sleep cycles, coma conditions, and brain death. In research, it aids fields like neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and brain-computer interfaces.
Volume conduction describes the movement of electrical signals from neurons through tissues to electrodes. The captured signals undergo processing to eliminate noise and enhance accuracy.
Neurons emit electrical waves, which are captured by scalp electrodes, forming an electroencephalogram. The International 10-20 System standardizes electrode placement, fostering uniform and comparable outcomes.
EEG data reveals voltage shifts and frequency changes, analyzed to decipher brain activity patterns. While it excels in tracking rapid brain activity, it is less effective for deep brain analysis, often complemented by imaging methods like MRI.
EEG systems are relatively low-cost, non-invasive, and portable, facilitating widespread clinical application. Despite requiring meticulous setup, EEG remains a practical and efficient diagnostic tool.
Over the past century, EEG has profoundly enhanced our understanding of brain activity. Its real-time insights are invaluable in both clinical practice and research, cementing its role in advancing neuroscience and medical diagnostics as we commemorate 100 years of its usage.
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