Clinical Neurophysiology

Clinical Neurophysiology at CUH

What Do We Do?

Clinical Neurophysiology is a subspecialty of neurology dedicated to assessing and diagnosing disorders of the brain, nerves, and muscles. Unlike general neurology, which focuses on the broader diagnosis and treatment of neurological conditions, clinical neurophysiology is specifically concerned with measuring and evaluating the electrical activity of the nervous system.

At Cork University Hospital (CUH), our Clinical Neurophysiology service provides diagnostic support for a range of neurological conditions across all age groups, from newborns to elderly patients. Our advanced testing methods allow us to gain insights into brain function, nerve conduction, and muscle activity, guiding treatment plans for a variety of conditions.

Electroencephalography (EEG) – Assessing Brain Activity

We evaluate brain waves using electroencephalography (EEG) during wakefulness and sleep. EEG testing helps us:

  • Diagnose epilepsy and guide treatment choices.

  • Identify whether confusion is due to ongoing seizures, brain infections, or metabolic disorders like high ammonia levels.

  • Assist Intensive Care Unit (ICU) teams in determining whether anti-seizure medications or sedation adjustments are necessary for critically ill patients.

Nerve and Muscle Testing – Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography (EMG)

We assess the function of nerves and muscles through nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) to diagnose conditions such as:

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – guiding surgical intervention where needed.

  • Motor Neuron Disease – aiding neurologists in further management and treatment planning.

  • Peripheral Nerve Injuries and Neuromuscular Disorders – identifying affected nerves or muscles to determine the need for immune-mediated treatments or other interventions.

We have also expanded our diagnostic capabilities with ultrasound techniques, which allow us to assess the structure of nerves and muscles alongside their function, enhancing the accuracy of our diagnoses.

Autonomic Function Testing – Evaluating the Automatic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary functions such as heart rate, blood pressure regulation, sweating, and body temperature control. We assess autonomic function in:

  • Patients with post-viral fatigue syndromes (e.g., post-COVID complications) – identifying autonomic dysfunction contributing to exercise intolerance and prolonged fatigue.

  • Older adults with unexplained falls – determining whether drops in blood pressure when standing may be causing reduced blood flow to the brain, leading to fainting and falls.

Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) – Protecting the Nervous System During Surgery

We work closely with neurosurgeons to monitor brain and spinal cord function in real time during surgeries. By continuously assessing nerve signals, we can:

  • Alert surgeons if there is a decline in neurological function during an operation.

  • Help prevent permanent damage by enabling immediate surgical adjustments when necessary.

  • Improve patient outcomes by reducing the risk of post-operative neurological deficits.

Advancing Patient Care

Our Clinical Neurophysiology team at CUH is dedicated to providing state-of-the-art diagnostic services that improve patient outcomes. By utilizing cutting-edge technology and collaborating with multiple specialties, we play a critical role in diagnosing and managing complex neurological conditions. Our work helps ensure that patients receive the most effective treatments tailored to their individual needs.

For more information on our services or to schedule an appointment, please contact the Clinical Neurophysiology Department at CUH.