How to Obtain Reliable Visual Event-related Potentials in Newborns

Lourdes Cubero-Rego; Josefina Ricardo-Garcell; Thal&#237;a Harmony; Mar&#237;a Corsi-Cabrera

doi:10.3791/60164

How to Obtain Reliable Visual Event-related Potentials in Newborns

JoVE Journal
Neuroscience

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JoVE Journal Neuroscience

How to Obtain Reliable Visual Event-related Potentials in Newborns

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07:39 min

October 24, 2019

DOI: 10.3791/60164-v

Lourdes Cubero-Rego¹, Josefina Ricardo-Garcell¹, Thalía Harmony¹, María Corsi-Cabrera^1,2

¹Research Unit in Neurodevelopment, Institute of Neurobiology,National Autonomous University of Mexico, ²Sleep Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology,National Autonomous University of Mexico

Overview

This article presents a protocol for obtaining high-quality visual evoked potentials (VEPs) from newborns. It emphasizes minimizing variability and ensuring reliable recordings to facilitate early detection of central nervous system abnormalities. The study highlights the importance of recording during active sleep and provides detailed guidelines for electrode placement and recording procedures.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

Neuroscience
Neonatal Development
Electrophysiology

Background

Visual evoked potentials are essential for assessing brain function in newborns.
Reducing variability during recordings can improve diagnostic accuracy.
Active sleep is identified as the optimal state for VEP recording.

Purpose of Study

To establish a reliable method for recording VEPs in newborns.
To guide practitioners in minimizing factors that could affect VEP outcomes.
To aid in the early identification of neurological issues in at-risk infants.

Methods Used

The study employs a clinical setting for VEP recording during active sleep.
A newborn model is used, with detailed protocols for preparation and electrode placement.
Specific timelines for preparation and recording are provided, including hygiene practices.
Electrodes are placed according to the International 10-20 System, with monitoring of impedance levels.

Main Results

Clear and reproducible VEP waveforms can be obtained, particularly during defined active sleep stages.
Identification of VEP components (e.g., PII, NII, NIII) enables evaluation of brain responsiveness.
Variability is reduced through careful monitoring and stimulation protocols, improving diagnostic reliability.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates a reliable methodological approach for VEP recordings in newborns.
The protocols established facilitate early detection of developmental abnormalities.
Findings support better understanding of neural development and potential interventions for at-risk populations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of the described VEP recording method?

This method allows for non-invasive monitoring of brain function in newborns, providing critical information for early intervention.

How is the newborn prepared for VEP recording?

Preparation involves washing the baby's hair, allowing feeding before recording, and ensuring the scalp is clean before electrode placement.

What outcomes can be measured from VEP recordings?

The recordings allow for assessment of latency and amplitude of VEP components, which indicate brain responsiveness and potential developmental issues.

How can this method be adapted for different settings?

The method can be tailored by adjusting hygiene protocols and electrode placements based on local hospital practices while maintaining core principles.

What are key limitations to consider?

Variability may still occur due to external factors or infant movement, and recordings must be carefully monitored for accurate results.

Several important points for obtaining high-quality reliable visual evoked potentials (VEPs) in newborns while minimizing variability and the risk of misleading prognoses are presented.

Obtaining high quality visual event-related potentials is crucial for the early detection of abnormal development within the central nervous system and is important for successful early intervention implementation in at-risk newborns. VEPs are objective, non-invasive, and sensitive to structural and functional brain damage. Recording during polysomnography-identified active sleep reduces variability allowing reliable VEPs to be obtained.

The day before the study, make sure that the baby's head is washed with neutral soap so that the hair is clean and dry. 30 minutes before beginning the study, allow the parent to begin feeding the newborn before burping the baby and wrapping the baby in a sheet so that the baby sleeps easily and spontaneously. Before handling the neonate, wash the hands carefully and put on a sanitary mask.

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