Electroencephalograms and evoked potentials. Monitoring cerebral function in the neurosurgical intensive care unit.

Electroencephalographic and evoked potential testing are valuable clinical tools in the ICU. They can detect subclinical neurologic impairment, identify locations of dysfunction, and help establish the nature of some kinds of problems. Continuous monitoring provides a valuable technique for identifying nonconvulsive seizures, as well as for detecting certain complications early enough to intervene and prevent permanent sequelae. Knowledgeable clinicians can use these tools to benefit ICU patient care greatly.