Brisbane Clinical Neuroscience Centre
Brisbane Clinical Neuroscience Centre (BCNC) provides EEG testing in Brisbane, including routine EEG, sleep-deprived EEG and video-ambulatory EEG monitoring. An electroencephalogram (EEG) records electrical activity in the brain and may be used as part of a neurological assessment when clinically indicated.
Our service offers:
- Video-Ambulatory EEG monitoring
- Routine EEG
- Sleep-Deprived EEG
All studies are performed using state-of-the-art Natus EEG systems and interpreted by neurologists with ANZAN Level 3 EEG accreditation.
Our neurologists have extensive experience working in comprehensive epilepsy monitoring units and clinical integration of EEG findings.
What is an EEG?
An EEG scan, also called an electroencephalogram or EEG test, is a non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of the brain using small sensors placed on the scalp.
An EEG may form part of a neurological assessment for events such as suspected seizures, episodes of altered awareness, blackouts or other unexplained neurological events. Your referring doctor or neurologist will determine whether an EEG is appropriate based on your individual circumstances.
When Is an EEG Test Used?
An EEG test may be requested when a patient experiences episodic neurological events, including:
- suspected epileptic seizures
- unexplained blackouts or collapses
- episodes of altered awareness
- abnormal movements, behavioural events, or unexplained neurological symptoms
- evaluation of known epilepsy
Ambulatory or video EEG may be recommended when events are infrequent or difficult to capture during a routine EEG.
Types of EEG Tests at BCNC
BCNC provides different types of EEG tests depending on the clinical question and the recommendation of the referring doctor or neurologist.
Routine EEG
A routine EEG is a short recording of brain activity, typically lasting 20 minutes, with the total appointment time usually 30–45 minutes.
During the test:
- EEG electrodes are placed on the scalp
- Brain activity is recorded while you are resting
- Activation procedures such as deep breathing (hyperventilation) and flashing lights (photic stimulation) may be performed to increase the diagnostic yield of the study.
Routine EEGs are commonly used as a first-line test when epilepsy or seizure-like events are suspected.
Sleep-Deprived EEG
A sleep-deprived EEG is similar to a routine EEG but is performed after the patient has intentionally reduced their sleep.
Sleep deprivation can increase the likelihood of detecting abnormal brain activity and is particularly helpful when:
- A routine EEG is normal but epilepsy is still suspected
- The patient’s events occur during sleep
- Additional diagnostic sensitivity is needed
Patients are typically asked to restrict sleep to approximately 4 hours the night before the test and remain awake prior to the study.
Video Ambulatory EEG
A video ambulatory EEG is a prolonged EEG recording performed while the patient continues their normal activities at home.
Electrodes are attached to the scalp and connected to a small portable recorder worn on a belt or shoulder strap. Recording may continue for 2–4 days, depending on the clinical indication.
In many cases, a video camera records the patient simultaneously, allowing neurologists to correlate physical symptoms with brain activity.
This test provides a much longer recording than routine EEG and providing a longer recording period that may help capture events that do not occur during a routine EEG.
Contact our friendly team for more information.
Why Your Doctor Might Refer You for an EEG
Doctors may refer patients for EEG testing to:
Diagnose Epilepsy
EEG can detect abnormal electrical discharges associated with seizures.
Investigate Episodic Neurological Events
Such as:
- Blackouts
- Collapse episodes
- Transient confusion
- Unusual sensory experiences
- Suspected non-epileptic events
Classify Seizure Types
EEG helps determine the type of epilepsy, which guides treatment.
Assess Treatment Response
Pre-surgical Epilepsy Evaluation
Long-term EEG monitoring may help localise seizures in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.
Ambulatory EEG in particular is useful for:
- Capturing infrequent events
- Recording seizures during normal daily life
- Evaluating unexplained attacks
Advanced EEG Technology at BCNC
BCNC uses modern Natus EEG systems, the same technology used in leading epilepsy centres worldwide.
Video Ambulatory EEG System
We use the Natus Trex HD Ambulatory EEG system, which provides:
- High-quality continuous EEG recording
- Integrated video recording
- Portable patient-friendly design
- Remote monitoring capabilities
This allows patients to undergo prolonged EEG recording in their home environment, increasing the likelihood of capturing typical events.
In-Clinic EEG Systems
Routine and sleep-deprived EEGs are performed using Natus clinical EEG recording systems, delivering reliable signal quality, digital EEG acquisition, standardised neurophysiology protocols, integration with advanced AI-assisted EEG analysis software that supports specialist review and interpretation.
EEG Expertise at BCNC
All EEG recordings at BCNC are interpreted by consultant epileptologists with ANZAN Level 3 EEG accreditation. ANZAN Level 3 accreditation represents the highest level of specialist training in EEG, required to supervise EEG laboratories and train other neurologists in EEG interpretation. This level of training typically requires advanced epilepsy fellowship training, high-volume EEG interpretation, and formal examination certification. Our EEG specialists have also worked in comprehensive epilepsy monitoring units, ensuring expert interpretation of complex recordings.
What Happens During Your EEG Appointment
Step 1 – Preparation
Step 2 – Recording
During the recording you may be asked to:
- Relax quietly
- Open and close your eyes
- Perform deep breathing
- Look at flashing lights
For ambulatory EEG, you will return home and continue normal daily activities while the EEG records brain activity.
Step 3 – Completion
After the recording:
- Electrodes are removed
- Hair can be washed at home
- Data is analysed by a specialist neurologist.
Preparing for Your EEG Appointment
To ensure the best quality recording:
Hair Preparation
Wash your hair before the test and avoid:
- Conditioner
- Hair oils
- Hair styling products
Medications
Clothing
Food and Caffeine
Eat normally but avoid excessive caffeine before the test.
For sleep-deprived EEG, additional sleep restriction instructions will be provided.
Patients can download preparation instructions for EEG studies:
During an Ambulatory EEG Study
While wearing the recording device:
- Continue normal daily activities where possible
- Keep a diary of symptoms or events
- Press the event button if symptoms occur
- Avoid getting the electrodes wet
- Avoid activities that could dislodge the equipment
You will return to the clinic after the recording period to have the electrodes removed.
When Will Results Be Available?
Your EEG recording will be reviewed by a consultant epileptologist.
A report is sent to your referring doctor within 1 week for routine and sleep-deprived EEGs, and within approximately 4 weeks for video-ambulatory EEG studies. If a report is required more urgently, we can prioritise the study report.
Referral Information for Doctors
BCNC accepts referrals for:
- Routine EEG
- Sleep-deprived EEG
- Video ambulatory EEG monitoring
Our service is designed to support general practitioners, neurologists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.
We provide:
- Rapid access to EEG testing
- High-quality digital EEG recordings
- Expert specialist EEG interpretation
Referral Forms
Referring doctors can download EEG referral forms below:
Contact Brisbane Clinical Neuroscience Centre
- Phone: (07) 3163 3600
- Email: admin@bcnc.com.au
- Website: www.bcnc.com.au
- Location
Level 3, Suite 1 Salmon Building 537 Stanley Street South Brisbane QLD 4101
BCNC provides one of the few dedicated private video-ambulatory EEG monitoring services in Queensland, allowing prolonged EEG recording in the patient’s home environment while maintaining specialist neurological supervision.
Our EEG Experts
Our Brisbane neurologists and clinical staff are highly experienced in delivering neurological care advice and treatment to help in the management of neurological conditions. They routinely perform electroencephalography (EEG) tests to assist in managing neurological conditions.
FAQs Electroencephalography (EEG)
Can I drive or operate machinery after an EEG test?
In most cases, you can resume normal activities, including driving or operating machinery, immediately after a standard EEG. However, if the test followed sleep deprivation or you feel drowsy afterwards, it’s best to avoid these activities until you’re fully alert. Therefore, always follow your doctor’s specific advice based on your individual condition.
Do you perform EEG tests on children?
No, we don’t.
How many EEGs will I require?
The number of EEGs needed varies based on your medical condition and your doctor’s evaluation. While some individuals may need only one EEG, others might require multiple tests, especially if initial results are unclear or if ongoing monitoring is necessary. Consequently, your doctor will recommend the appropriate number of tests to meet your specific needs.
What Is the Difference Between an EEG Scan and an EEG Test?
An EEG scan and EEG test generally refer to the same type of investigation. An electroencephalogram (EEG) records electrical activity in the brain using electrodes placed on the scalp. Different types of EEG tests, such as routine, sleep-deprived and video-ambulatory EEG, may be used depending on the clinical circumstances.