The value of prolonged electroencephalographic and video monitoring in diagnosis of seizure disorders.

Prolonged electroencephalographic and video monitoring of ictal events is useful in aiding the diagnosis of complicated seizure disorders. Forty-eight patients admitted to a neurology service were assessed with this technique. Twenty-five (54%) had their diagnoses changed, six (14%) had their diagnoses confirmed and the remaining patients had inconclusive studies. Therapy is modified by the results and in addition both patient and staff education is enhanced through the use of this equipment.