What is a consequence of using a notch filter in SSEP recordings?

Using a notch filter in SSEP (Somatosensory Evoked Potential) recordings is aimed at reducing or eliminating specific frequency components from the recorded signal, typically to remove power line noise (such as 50 Hz or 60 Hz interference). However, a consequence of implementing a notch filter is the potential for ringing artifacts.

Ringing artifacts occur because notch filters, while effective at attenuating certain frequencies, may also introduce distortion in the time domain due to their design. The filter can create oscillations around the target frequency, which appear as spikes or oscillations in the data, leading to misleading results. This artifact can complicate the interpretation of the SSEP data, as it may mimic or obscure genuine neural responses.

The other options, while potentially beneficial in their own contexts, are not accurate reflections of the effects of a notch filter. The filter does not eliminate all noise completely, does not enhance signal clarity in a straightforward manner, and does not increase the amplitude of the signals directly.