Electrodes that are placed directly on the skin are known as "surface electrodes." Electrodes placed on the skin can record and analyze electrical activity in the heart (electrocardiography, or ECG), the skeletal muscles (electromyography, or EMG), and the neurons in the brain (electroencephalography, or EEG).
EEG measurements are often done with gold cup electrodes that have an open tip so that electrolyte gel can be added to improve the connection. These electrodes, which can be bought at LifeSync Neuro in different sizes to fit the occipital, parietal, central, and frontal regions of newborns and adults, make it possible to record the whole EEG frequency range.
EEG Recording Using Gold Cup Electrodes
An electroencephalogram (EEG) measures the differences in potential between two electrode pairs placed in different locations on the scalp. One electrode in a pair is known as the signal electrode, and the other is the reference electrode.
It is crucial that the gold cup EEG electrodes make good contact with the scalp in order to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the collected signals. To lower the impedance between the skin and the electrodes, a coating of conductive paste is typically applied prior to recordings.
Heavy-Duty Operations-Designed Gold Cup EEG Electrodes
Our gold cup EEG electrodes have a high gold coating and are made with adhesive shrink tubing technology. This keeps fluid from leaking into the soldered connection and gives the electrode more strength, making sure they last a long time and give accurate readings.
Even if the cup electrodes are used all the time, the multiple gold coatings keep them from wearing out too quickly. Given that gold lacks reactivity to chemicals, gold cup EEG electrodes maintain their effectiveness over time and decrease the risk of metal-related skin reactions.
Our gold cup EEG electrodes include a robust cable that is exceptionally light, tear-resistant, watertight, reinforced with Kevlar technology, and does not grow brittle or sticky even after frequent cleaning and sanitizing.
How to Prepare for EEG Recording and Monitoring
How do you decide which EEG device and technique of use are ideal for you and your patient when there are so many options? While some training and familiarity with EEGs are helpful, the basics are outlined here.
Mark The Head
Mark the locations of where the electrodes will go on the patient's head with an "X" using one of our skin markers, based on the measurements you took using the international 10/20 system.
Prep the Skin
The impedance of the electrode connection is reduced by using an abrasive pretreatment to remove oils and dry skin from the area where the electrode will be applied.
When dealing with impedance problems caused by oils, hair products, or individuals with extremely dry scalps, alcohol wipes can be helpful. Caution should be exercised if the patient has sensitive skin, as there will be some light abrasion upon doing this.
While there are many different skin preparation solutions on the market, we carry only the NuPrep® gel brand because of its popularity amongst doctors and patients alike due to its pleasant odor, smooth texture, and neutral hue.
Have Enough Conductive Paste
In order to reduce the contact impedance between electrodes and the skin, this is used as a medium to hold the electrodes in place on the scalp. Ten20, Elefix, and SignaGel are three of the most popular conductive pastes used by clinicians, and you can get them directly from our online store.
Position the Electrodes on the Scalp
Put enough paste in the cup so that it almost spills over. As you place the cup on the prepared surface, lightly press down on it. Use the hypoallergenic Transpore Tape to cover the electrode,, or a gauze piece with collodium for LTM EEG
Disposable vs Reusable
Since reusable EEG medical electrodes are more cost-effective, long-lasting, flexible, than disposable EEG electrodes, they are often utilized in place of disposable EEG electrodes. Using steam or other disinfectants to sterilize these reusable electrodes can lower the risk of infection and cross-contamination.
While disposables are built to record data just as effectively as reusables, the latter are far more sturdy. But when comparing the costs of reusable versus disposable electrodes, it is important to keep in mind that strict adherence to disinfection guidelines may result in increased labor expenses associated with cleaning and disinfecting the former.
Even though disposable cups lack some of the benefits of reusable ones, they do have their own perks. Also, since they aren't reused, they are the safest way to manage risks because they stop the spread of infection.
LifeSync Neuro has you covered, regardless of which EEG electrodes you prefer to use. We stock both silver and gold versions of these items, regardless of whether they are disposable or not. Simply go with the option that serves you best. Visit LifeSync Neuro today for all your EEG monitoring needs.