Jingle pretty much nailed it. It's basically a very advanced albeit accurate VEEG. A standard EEG gives the approximate seizure location and activity, whereas the more invasive VEEG with the electrodes placed on the brain and sometimes on any affected areas (scar tissue, 'white spots', etc.) gives nearly exact locations of activity. This test is something not everyone can get, but it's a test that should (more often than not) give answers.

If they did his surgery without this test, I'd probably feel a bit of concern. From my understanding, this test is typically done primarily for surgery candidates. I know quite a few of us here were able to catch the Epilepsy special on the Discovery Health Channel called "Surgery Saved My Life". They did do this type of a VEEG on the person and were able to get a highly accurate reading. They had stated this type was done for accuracy.

It's unfortunate to hear he is in such pain, I had naturally assumed it was one of those things that look like they hurt much worse than they actually do. However, I'd imagine it's how it was done as well as the patients pain tolerance and any other health factors that may be involved.

I wish nothing but the best for your father, for you and for your family. I hope his procedure brings answers and the surgery brings him some comfort after recovery.

*Hugs*

I knew you two could answer this!

Well, Julie -- I know this special type of VEEG is a GOOD one and it's used frequently .... but I'm just as frightened of it as M
As I've said before, on March 6 I go back to the hospital for another regular VEEG and I'm terrified they'll say I need the special one
Will I have the 'gumption' to sign the papers?

That's some silly, imaginary fear, isn't it, because I'll sign more surgery papers in a heart beat.

(((M)))

What the Dr. is doing is a veeg. I had this done. My surgeon drilled 7 holes into my head 4 on the RTL and 3 on the LTL and then they put the depth electrodes directly on areas of the brain that they thought the sz. were coming from. By doing this test the Dr. can pinpoint the exact location in the brain that's triggering sz. I was on camera around the clock except when I was in the restroom. I also had a 25 ft. cable hooked up to the eeg machine so I wouldn't have to stay in bed all the time I was able to get up and walk around.
If I may ask did the Dr. cut back on your dad's AED's or give him any food or beverages that might cause him to have a sz. This is what they did to me before I had my main surgery, thank goodness not everyone has to have this done. Most of the time it's done to see if there's more than one area in the brain causing sz. My prayers are with your dad and your family. May God Bless All of You!

Sue

he did cut back on his AED's but just the other day. My dad can't eat much of anything because some of the electrodes are as far down as my dads jaw area. I talked to my dad last night and he told me that they drilled 22 holes in his head. I thought that to be a bit extreme and wasn't sure if he was correct. But I verified it with the nurse this morning. So he has 22 different electrodes placed all around his brain. No wonder he was in so much pain those first three days and the surgery took 8 hours.

No new news of when they are going to let him out . They would like him to have at least 2-3 more seizures. The are going to try to induce some with light stimulation. If he is anything like me, that will set them off. But we will see.

Thank all of you for your support. I will keep you updated.

M

((((((((((M)))))))))