A scientist at the University of Eastern Finland has developed a new, easy-to-use electroencephalography (EEG) electrode set to measure electrical activity of the brain. The new design allows the user to attach the electrode set to the patient quickly, without any special treatment of the skin. Its design also pays attention to the reduction of electromagnetic interference from external sources.

EEG measurements can be used to detect abnormalities in the electrical activity of the brain that require immediate treatment. Although the benefits of EEG measurements are indisputable, they remain underused in acute and emergency care because they are difficult to attach on the patient, and their use requires special skills and constant training. This new type of an electrode set is expected to provide solutions for making EEG measurements feasible at as an early stage as possible.

The EEG electrode set was produced using screen printing technology, in which silver ink was used to print the conductors and measurement electrodes on a flexible polyester film. The EEG electrode set consists of 16 hydrogel-coated electrodes which, unlike in the traditional method, are placed on the hair-free areas of the patient’s head, making it easy to attach.

The new EEG electrode set significantly speeds up the measurement process because there is no need to scrape the patient’s skin or to use any separate gels. As the electrode set is flexible and solid, the electrodes get automatically placed in their correct places. Furthermore, there is no need to move the patient’s head when putting on the EEG electrode set, which is especially important in patients possibly suffering from a neck or skull injury. Due to the fact that the disposable electrode set is easy and fast to use, it is particularly well-suited to be used in emergency care, in ambulances and even in field conditions.

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