Somatosensory Evoked Potential Test

Download leaflet

The Roald Dahl Neurophysiology Department Somatosensory Evoked Potential Test Information for parents and carers (85kB)

What is a somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP)?

SSEP stands for Somatosensory Evoked Potential and investigates the function of a nerve pathway between a limb and the brain by stimulating a hand or foot and recording responses from the nerves

The tests help the Consultant in the diagnosis and management of your child’s complaint or condition.

What should your child do before the test?

• Please wash their hair and do not use any hair products (gel, mousse, etc.).
• Take their medication as normal unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
• Let them eat as normal.
• Dress them in comfortable baggy clothes i.e. baggy top and trousers / leisure suit.

What will happen during the test?

• Your child will be asked to lie on a couch or chair during the test.
• Studies on the arm involve small electrodes being placed on the head, neck, shoulder and wrist using a sticky pastes and tape.
• Studies on the leg involve the electrodes being placed on their head, neck, lower back and ankle.
• To test the pathway, a nerve in their hand or ankle will be stimulated with a small electrical pulse given to the skin at the wrist or ankle which will make the muscle twitch slightly. This will last for about 2 minutes.
• During the test they will feel slight tingling or pulsing in the hand or ankle
• This will be repeated on the other arm and /or leg
• You can stay with your child throughout the test.
• Please feel free to bring their favourite DVD, book or hand held toy.
• Please tell the physiologist prior to the test if your child has a heart pacemaker or vagal nerve stimulator in place. 

Are there any risks?

No, there are no reported risks to this test.

How long will the test take?

The whole test will take about 45 minutes and there are no after-effects.

How will I receive the results?

The results will be sent back to your child’s Consultant and you will receive them at your next out-patient appointment

Where is the department located?

Use the blue set of lifts directly next to the Concierge/help desk up to the 4^th floor. Upon exiting the lift, turn right.

Please see attached appointment letter for the date and time of the test.

Also, if for any reason you are unable to attend, or wish to rearrange, please inform us.

Call 0151 252 5375

This leaflet only gives general information. You must always discuss the individual treatment of your child with the appropriate member of staff. Do not rely on this leaflet alone for information about your child’s treatment.

This information can be made available in other languages and formats if requested.

PIAG: 083