Collodion Versus Tensive-Quality and Cost Comparison in 48-hour Ambulatory EEG Studies

PURPOSE: To determine whether there is a difference in electrode impedances in 48-hour in-home ambulatory EEGs (AEEG) when using collodion versus Tensive for electrode application. In addition, to compare the costs of using the two adhesive agents. METHODS: This retrospective review analyzed 252 intermittently monitored 48-hour ambulatory EEG studies conducted in adult patients. In total, 126 studies were conducted using collodion and 126 using Tensive for electrode application. Each group was composed of an equal number of male and female. Electrode impedances were checked and documented at least every 4 hours, more frequently if artifact was noticed by the registered EEG technologist (R.EEG T.) during intermittent monitoring. The number of electrodes in which impedance exceeded 10 kOhms anytime during the 48-hour study was assessed. In addition, the per-patient cost of collodion and its required ancillary supplies was compared with that of Tensive. RESULTS: The incidence of impedances greater than 10 kOhms in 48-hour ambulatory EEGs was similar for the collodion and Tensive groups. It was 42.1% for collodion and 45.2% for Tensive. The difference between the two adhesives was not statistically significant (P = 0.6114). There was a 73% cost reduction per patient when using Tensive compared with collodion. CONCLUSIONS: There is no significant difference in the maintenance of proper electrode impedance in 48-hour ambulatory EEGs when using collodion or Tensive for electrode application. There is a 73% cost reduction per patient when using Tensive.