What is a SAM EEG recording?
A SAM EEG recording is a standardized process for recording the brain's naturally occurring electrical activity using the SAM system. The recorded EEG data can then be processed and used to generate a structured report.
What does a SAM EEG recording measure?
A SAM EEG recording captures the brain's electrical activity using sensors positioned on the scalp.
The recording includes two standard resting-state conditions:
- Eyes open
- Eyes closed
Each condition provides complementary information about brain activity.
How is a SAM EEG recording performed?
A typical SAM EEG workflow includes preparation, EEG recording, signal quality monitoring, and reporting.
Preparation
Before the recording begins:
- The patient is seated comfortably.
- The EEG cap is positioned and aligned correctly.
- Sponge inserts are moistened using 0.9% saline solution.
- Reference and ground electrodes are attached to the ear lobes.
- Signal quality is checked for all channels.
Recording
Brain activity is recorded during two conditions:
- Eyes open
- Eyes closed
During both conditions, the patient should remain relaxed, still, and awake.
Signal Quality Monitoring
Signal quality is monitored throughout the recording.
The SAM software displays signal quality indicators for each channel:
- Green indicates good quality.
- Yellow indicates moderate quality.
- Red indicates poor quality.
If signal quality is not stable, adjustments should be made before continuing the recording.
Processing and Reporting
After recording is complete:
- The EEG data is processed.
- Recording segments are organized.
- Quantitative measures are calculated.
- A structured PDF report can be generated from the processed data.
Is a SAM EEG recording invasive or painful?
No. A SAM EEG recording is non-invasive and painless. It records the brain's naturally occurring electrical activity using sensors placed on the scalp. No electrical stimulation is applied during the recording.
What preparation is needed before a SAM EEG recording?
Before recording:
- The patient should be seated comfortably.
- The patient should relax the face, jaw, neck, and shoulders.
- The EEG cap should be positioned correctly.
- Signal quality should be verified for all channels.
How is SAM EEG data stored and reported?
- Raw EEG recordings are stored as .bdf (BioSemi Data Format) files.
- Processed results can be presented in a PDF report.
Notes
- SAM EEG recordings include both eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions.
- Signal quality should be monitored throughout the recording.
- High-quality recordings depend on correct setup, good electrode contact, and patient cooperation.
- Movement and muscle tension are common sources of recording artifacts.