What is the typical sensitivity setting recommended for EEG during CEA?

The typical sensitivity setting recommended for EEG during Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA) is 3 µV/mm. This sensitivity setting strikes a balance between detecting important brain activity and reducing the impact of electrical noise that may be present in the operating room environment.

In intraoperative monitoring, particularly during procedures like CEA where the risk of cerebral ischemia is a concern, it's crucial to adequately visualize the EEG waveform to identify any significant changes. A sensitivity of 3 µV/mm allows for a clearer representation of the brain's electrical activity while still being sensitive enough to detect subtle changes that could indicate distress or compromised cerebral blood flow.

Using a sensitivity that is too low may result in missing critical ischemic changes, as these potential changes would not be amplified adequately for detection. Conversely, a sensitivity that is too high may introduce too much noise, making it difficult to discern the actual brain signals. This optimal setting enhances the ability to monitor the patient's neurological status in real-time during surgery.