Diagnostic Services

Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG)

Dr Petre performs and interprets both Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography in his own rooms. You may be referred for the test by another doctor or specialist, or the test may be organised after a consultation with Dr Petre.

  • WHAT ARE NCS AND EMG?

    Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS):

    • Measures how well and how fast electrical signals travel along your nerves.

    Electromyography (EMG):

    • Measures the electrical activity of muscles at rest and during contraction.

    Nerve conduction studies are generally performed first. If needed, electromyography is then performed, and offers complimentary information to the nerve studies. 

  • PURPOSE

    These tests help Dr Petre diagnose:


    • Nerve injuries or compression (like carpal tunnel syndrome and peripheral neuropathy)
    • Muscle disorders
    • Weakness, numbness, or tingling

  • BEFORE THE TEST

    Clothing:

    • Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the arms and legs.
    • Shorts or short-sleeved shirts are ideal.

    Skin Care:

    • Clean skin is essential. Do not apply lotions, oils, or creams on the day of the test.

    Medications:

    • Take your usual medications.

    Food and Drink:

    • Eat normally; no special restrictions.

    Health Conditions:

    • Tell Dr Petre if you have a pacemaker, defibrillator or bleeding disorder.

  • DURING THE TEST

    Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)


    • Small electrodes are placed on the skin, at various places depending on the nerve being tested.
    • A mild electrical pulse is applied to stimulate the nerve. This amount for electrical stimuli is not dangerous to you or your nerves.
    • You may feel a brief tingling or tapping sensation.
    • The test usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the number of nerves tested.


    Electromyography (EMG)


    • A thin needle electrode is inserted into selected muscles.
    • You may feel brief discomfort or pinpricks.
    • You’ll be asked to relax and then gently contract the muscle.
    • EMG takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the number of muscles tested.

  • AFTER THE TEST

    • You can resume normal activities immediately, including driving. 
    • If EMG is performed, mild soreness or bruising may occur at needle sites for a day or two.
    • Dr Petre will often provide initial results on completion of the test. 
    • A complete formal report will be available within a few days, and will be sent to your GP or referring doctor, and become part of your medical record.

REFER A PATIENT FOR NERVE CONDUCTION STUDIES (NCS)

Electro-encePHalography (EEG)

Dr Petre does not perform EEG in his own rooms. You will generally be referred to the Brisbane Clinical Neuroscience Centre (BCNC) at the Mater Hospital for this test.

  • WHAT IS AN EEG?

    An EEG is a test that records the electrical activity of the brain using small sensors called electrodes placed on the scalp. Dr Petre will generally request this test to evaluate seizures or epilepsy, although it can provide additional information in certain cases. 

  • PURPOSE

    • Detect abnormal brain activity.
    • Help diagnose epilepsy or other seizure disorders.

  • BEFORE THE TEST

    Hair Care:

    • Wash your hair the night before or the morning of the test.
    • Do not use hair products such as gel, oil, or hairspray (they prevent electrodes from sticking properly).

    Medications:

    • Take your usual medications. 

    Sleep:

    • Sometimes an EEG may be performed after sleep deprivation. Dr Petre will provide specific instructions in this case. 
    • If sleep-deprived, make sure you have someone to drive you home.

    Food and Drink:

    • Eat a normal meal before the test.
    • Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks) on the day of the EEG, as it can affect results.

  • DAY OF TEST

    • Wear comfortable clothing; avoid hats or head coverings.
    • Arrive a few minutes early to check in.

  • DURING THE TEST

    • Electrodes will be placed on your scalp using a conductive paste or adhesive.
    • The test is painless.
    • You may be asked to: close your eyes; breathe deeply for a few minutes (hyperventilation); look at flashing lights (photostimulation); relax or sleep, depending on the type of EEG
    • The procedure usually takes 20–30 minutes for a routine EEG. 
    • Prolonged or sleep deprived EEGs are generally between 1 and 3 hours. 

  • AFTER THE TEST

    • You can resume normal activities immediately.
    • Wash your hair to remove electrode paste.
    • Some temporary mild scalp irritation may occur.