EEG and seizure prediction study

Utility of electroencephalography in seizure prediction in dogs and cats with acute brain injury

Purpose of study

Cats and dogs can sustain brain injury from direct injury, such as head trauma, or because of a more systemic injury, such as cardiac arrest. When this happens, the brain tissue undergoes injury that may result in seizures. These seizures can occur shortly after the injury or months later. Currently, we cannot predict which brain injury cases may go on to develop seizures. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether EEG performed within the first 48 hours after injury can identify a type of pre-seizure activity, called epileptiform activity, in the brain and whether this could predict the risk of seizures during the 12 months following injury.

Benefits

This study will cover the cost of the EEG and sedation (if sedation is necessary). During this study, we may detect seizure activity in your pet. If this occurs, we will be able to provide seizure treatment more quickly than we would have if your pet’s seizures had gone undetected.

Enrollment requirements

Cats and dogs who come to the WSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital (WSU VTH) for treatment of acute brain injury will be eligible for this study.

Treatment methods  

After your pet has been admitted to the WSU VTH and its brain injury has been stabilized, multiple wire electrodes will be placed into your pet’s scalp, just under the skin. The area with electrodes will be gently wrapped to keep the electrodes in place. The electrodes will be connected to the EEG and a video camera, and a recording will be performed for up to 24 hours. Once complete, the head wrap and electrodes will be removed.

Owner responsibilities

Owners are responsible for bringing their animal to the WSU VTH for treatment and are responsible for the costs associated with standard diagnostic testing, treatment, and hospitalization for their pet.

Contact information

Dr. Vishal Murthy
Assistant Professor, Neurology