Evoked potentials

It is a test that examines whether signals are conducted normally over the nerve pathways.

• A BERA (Brainstem Evoked Repose Audiometry) tests the pathways for hearing, which are closely related to the pathways responsible for balance.
• An MEP (Motor Evoked Potential) tests the motor pathways.
• An SSEP (Somato Sensory Evoked Potential) tests the sensory pathways.
• A VEP (Visual Evoked Potential) tests the visual pathways.

A staff member of the Neurology Department will place electrodes on your head, arm and/or leg. To do this, a type of gel and some tape will be used.

Then various stimuli will be given.

• BERA: sounds via headphones or earphones
• MEP: a special coil will be placed about your head and will emit a magnetic pulse
• SSEP: electrical shocks on the pulse or ankle
• VEP: looking at a checkerboard pattern on a screen

• BERA: tell staff if you wear a hearing aid.
• VEP: if you have glasses or contact lenses, do not remove them. You must be able to follow the stimulus on the screen.

Latest publication date: 04/12/2023
Supervising author: Dr Aers Isabelle