Overview

The Neurology Department at Smita Memorial Hospital & Research Centrefollows a multidisciplinary approach to provide comprehensive and advanced neurological care. Collaborating with experts in Neurosurgery, Radiology, Psychology, and General Medicine, our department ensures a holistic approach to the diagnosis and treatment of neurological conditions.

Facilities

Our Neurology Department is well-equipped with a state-of-the-art neurology lab, utilizing the latest technological equipment for various neurological studies. We aim to integrate medical expertise to offer advanced neurological care and treatment to our patients.

Outpatient and Inpatient Services

We address a spectrum of outpatient conditions, including headache, epilepsy, stroke, parkinsonism & movement disorders, neuromuscular disorders, neuro-infections, neuro-immunological disorders, dementia, and cognitive dysfunction. Additionally, our department provides inpatient services for refractory epilepsy, status epilepticus, stroke, parkinsonism & movement disorders, neuromuscular disorders (GB syndrome, CIDP, Myasthenia Gravis), various neuro-infections, tropical neurological, autoimmune neurological disorders, dementia, and cognitive disorders. To facilitate optimal care, we have a dedicated Neuro-ICU and Neurology Ward.

Advanced Diagnostic and Therapeutic Services

Our institute is equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic tools, including the Nihon Koden EEG machine, portable and prolonged video EEG, Nerve Conduction Study (NCS), Electromyography (EMG), evoked potentials (VEP, BAER), Botox Therapy, Carotid Doppler, Angiogram, Endovascular Coiling, and Embolization. Neuro-radiological facilities include 128 slice CT , MRI (3 T) machine and Carotid Doppler.

Neuro Lab Services

Overview

Neurology Lab is an integral part of the Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery. To diagnosis a nervous system/neurological disorder, the Neurologist may have to carry out many tests. Making definitive diagnosis through proper investigations will help the patients in proper care. Neurology Lab at SMHRC is equipped to perform these tests to evaluate and diagnose the disorders of the muscles, motor neuron, spine, brain’s response to stimuli’s etc.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

EEG – Electroencephalogram (EEG) testing is a crucial diagnostic tool in the field of neurology, providing valuable insights into the electrical activity of the brain. Developed in the early 20th century, EEG has evolved into a sophisticated and non-invasive technique that aids neurologists in diagnosing various neurological conditions. This essay explores the principles of EEG testing, its applications in neurology, and the impact it has on patient care.

Principles of EEG Testing: EEG measures the electrical activity generated by the brain’s neurons through the use of electrodes placed on the scalp. These electrodes detect the electrical signals produced by neurons during their communication,reflecting the brain’s dynamic functioning. The recorded signals, known as brainwaves, are categorized into different frequency bands such as delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma, each associated with specific states of consciousness and cognitive functions.

Applications in Neurology:

1. Epilepsy Diagnosis and Monitoring: EEG is most commonly used in the diagnosis and monitoring of epilepsy. The characteristic abnormal electrical patterns, such as sharp waves and spikes, can help identify the location of seizure activity in the brain. Continuous EEG monitoring, especially in epilepsy units, provides crucial information for optimizing treatment strategies and assessing the efficacy of antiepileptic medications.
2. Sleep Disorders Evaluation: EEG is an essential tool in assessing sleep disorders. By monitoring brain activity during different sleep stages, neurologists can identify abnormalities that contribute to conditions such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and parasomnias. This information guides the development of personalized treatment plans to improve sleep quality.
3. Neurological Disorders and Brain Abnormalities: EEG testing is valuable in diagnosing various neurological disorders, including encephalopathies, neurodegenerative diseases, and brain tumors. Abnormal EEG patterns can indicate underlying brain abnormalities and guide further diagnostic investigations.
4. Brain Function and Cognitive Research: EEG is used in cognitive neuroscience to study brain function and understand cognitive processes such as attention, memory, and language. Researchers employ EEG to investigate how different brain regions communicate and coordinate during specific tasks, shedding light on the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive functions.

Impact on Patient Care:

1. Early Diagnosis and Intervention: EEG enables early diagnosis of neurological disorders, facilitating prompt intervention and better management of conditions such as epilepsy. Early identification allows neurologists to tailor treatment plans to the specific needs of the patient, potentially improving long-term outcomes.
2. Treatment Monitoring: Continuous EEG monitoring plays a crucial role in evaluating the effectiveness of treatments for epilepsy and other neurological conditions. Adjustments to medications or other interventions can be made based on real-time data, optimizing patient care.
3. Personalized Medicine: EEG results contribute to the development of personalized treatment plans. By understanding the unique electrical patterns of an individual’s brain, neurologists can tailor interventions to address specific abnormalities, minimizing side effects and maximizing therapeutic benefits.

EEG testing has become an indispensable tool in neurology, providing valuable insights into the electrical activity of the brain and aiding in the diagnosis and management of various neurological conditions. As technology advances, EEG continues to evolve, offering new opportunities for understanding brain function and improving patient care in the field of neurology. The ongoing research and application of EEG contribute significantly to advancing our knowledge of the brain and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with neurological disorders.

Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV)

In the Neurology Department at Smita Memorial Hospital & Research Centre, we offer advanced diagnostic services to assess and evaluate neurological conditions. The Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) test is a specialized diagnostic procedure designed to measure the speed at which electrical impulses travel through nerves, providing crucial insights into nerve function and identifying potential abnormalities.

The NCV test is a non-invasive diagnostic tool used to assess the health and functionality of the peripheral nerves. It is commonly employed to diagnose various neurological disorders and conditions affecting the peripheral nervous system. The test measures the speed at which electrical signals travel along the nerves, helping neurologists evaluate the integrity of nerve pathways and identify potential issues such as nerve damage, compression, or dysfunction.

Indications for NCV Test

Peripheral Neuropathy: To assess nerve damage in conditions like diabetic neuropathy or peripheral nerve injuries.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: To evaluate median nerve function in the wrist.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A rare disorder affecting the peripheral nerves.

Nerve Entrapment: Identification of compression or entrapment of nerves in specific areas.

Radial Nerve Dysfunction: Evaluation of nerve function in the arm.

Benefits of NCV Test at SMHRC

Accurate Diagnosis: The NCV test aids in the accurate diagnosis of various neurological conditions, guiding treatment decisions.

Non-Invasive: Being a non-invasive procedure, the NCV test is well-tolerated by most patients.

Specialized Neurology Team: The test is conducted by our skilled neurology team, ensuring accuracy and reliability.

If you or your healthcare provider suspect a neurological condition or peripheral nerve disorder, the NCV test at Smita Memorial Hospital & Research Centre can provide valuable insights. Our commitment to cutting-edge diagnostics and patient care ensures that you receive the highest standard of neurological evaluation. Trust us to be your partner in promoting neurological health and well-being.

In collaboration with the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, we focus on neuro-rehabilitation services to help patients recover from stroke faster, enabling them to resume their normal lives at the earliest. Specialized therapies are designed for patients with memory, behavior, and cognitive problems resulting from neurological damage.

Choose Smita Memorial Hospital & Research Centre for compassionate and cutting-edge neurological care. Your neurological well-being is our top priority, and we are here to support you on your journey to recovery