No, we designed the electrode lead-wire length to be as short as possible and adjusted the individual lead-wire length to approximate a straight line between the electrode cup and the mass connector to prevent snagging on the imaging gantry as the patient is moved in and out of the imaging unit. The individual lead-wire length also helps to position the electrode at the correct 10-20 location. The overall lead-wire length helps to position the mass connectors at the top of the head to permit ease of access and prevent the patient lying on this junction.

The sponge keeps the connector off of the scalp just enough to eliminate susceptibility artifact during imaging.

Yes, as long as the temperature of the sterilization method is below 212 degree F (100 degrees C), all electrode types (CPE, GCE) will be OK.

Yes and No. Brief exposure to acetone during removal is OK, as the acetone evaporates very quickly. Long exposure in acetone (i.e. soaking in a jar of acetone) for longer than a few minutes will completely dissolve the plastic and after 1⁄2 hour all that will be left will be lead wire.

With each electrode set, we supply a loose SPR lead. The electrode set is designed so that it permits individual electrodes to be removed and then the spare (PNK-SPR) electrodes put into place. Therefore, the SPR electrode can be quickly swapped into position if an existing lead fails.

First, you can take out the failed electrode and replace it with the SPR electrode as per diagram supplied with each electrode set. You can then order a new electrode from the original supplier of your electrode set by emailing request and specifying label needed (we keep a file on your institution). We will make up a replacement and send it off.

Yes, we indicated to the FDA in the 510k application that these electrodes (GCE, CPE, SWE) would be left in place during CT scanning. Since there are no safety issues in CT equipment, then this was not an issue. However, not all electrodes are “compatible” to CT images as classical “star-burst” artifact can be generated by some types of EEG electrodes. Any EEG electrode that has significant metal will deflect the CT’s X-ray beam and cause the classical “star-burst” artifact. Thus the GCE will cause the classical “star- burst” artifact. However, the CPE and the SWE will not create any secondary artifact. Some images will show cross sections of the wire or the electrode itself, but these are real images and not reflected into the general image.

Yes. All of our electrodes are approved for 1.5T or 3T imaging. You can download and read the full approval document, here.

It appears now from feedback from groups using the Conductive Plastic Electrodes (CPE) for years now, with proper care they seem to last as long as the metal cups. The main failure modes in order of frequency are. 

1. If they are left around, the ICU nursing staff throws them out. This is the same problem with the metal electrode set. 
2. The patient, in confusion pulls the electrode off the head. This act can break the connection between the electrode lead and crimp junction. Again, this can be the same problem with the metal electrode set. 
3. If the CPE set is left to soak in an acetone bath for more than a few minutes, all that may be left are the leads as the plastic may be completely dissolved. 
4. In the case of the shallow cup version CPE-xx/S), after many uses and cleanings, the conductive graphite coating may be worn off of the non-conductive ABS plastic core. Thus the impedance goes up and the recording quality deteriorates.

Yes, we have developed a Disposable Conductive Plastic Cup Electrode (DCPE) set. The EEG signal path is exactly the same as in the reusable.

We are available 24/7/365 to help with your vital questions or concerns, otherwise our office hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm [EST].