What to Expect
Research appointments at SCAI are handled by a research coordinator for each study.
When you are contacted by a research coordinator to set up an appointment, they will ask you some screening questions 鈥� please answer completely and honestly so that appropriate precautions can be taken for your safety and the quality of the research.
MEG Study
What is MEG?
Magnetoencephalography (MEG) measures the incredibly weak magnetic fields produced by the brain鈥檚 signaling. MEG captures these magnetic fields using highly sensitive sensors called SQUIDs (Superconducting Quantum Interference Devices). The procedure is non-invasive and completely harmless. No ionizing radiation (such as X-rays) or radio-active materials are used during the study.
MEG can measure the brain鈥檚 activity as fast as 1,000 times per second. When used alongside an MRI, MEG is particularly helpful for determining where in the brain these signals are coming from. This means that MEG offers a unique combination of spatial and temporal precision.
What can I expect during MEG?
Before starting the recording, the MEG Technologist will go over the screening questions with you. After this they will tape a variety of sensors to you and make a virtual copy of your head shape by tracing lines with an inkless 鈥減en鈥�. This feels like combing your hair. Following this, you will be asked to either sit or lay down in the MEG with your head in a helmet, and the door to the room will be shut while the recording takes place. The recording will take about 45 minutes, and you may be asked to respond to things that you see, hear, or feel, or simply to sit quietly. At all times the MEG Technologist will be able to see and hear you through a video and intercom system in the room.
It is important that you do not move during the examination in order to record the best quality data.
How should I prepare?
MEG is highly sensitive to electromagnetic waves, so if you have any medical implants that cannot be removed, like a pacemaker, infusion pump, certain metallic clips, cochlear implant, or vagal nerve stimulator, these must be brought to the attention of the MEG Technologist. On the day of your MEG do not wear metallic makeup, athletic clothing with metallic antibacterial fibers, or an underwire bra. Before the examination, all metal objects including credit cards and jewellery must be removed alongside cellphones and watches.