Abstracts

Rationale: A few studies have been conducted regarding the characteristics of the patients who were selected for video EEG monitoring in the Pediatric ICU. Additionally, not much data has been reported about the results of these studies carried out in the PICU. The aim of this study was to investigate one university hospitals experience with Video EEG monitoring in the Pediatric Intensive Care setting to better identify the types of patients which may require monitoring in an attempt to optimize patient care. Methods: The results of Video EEG studies conducted in the Pediatric ICU were reviewed retrospectively over an 18 month period. Data regarding age, gender, past medical history, indication for monitoring, presence of electrographic and electroclinical seizures, final result of study and outcome of patient were gathered.Results: 50 patients undergoing Video EEG monitoring were identified in a 18 month period between the ages of 3 weeks and 21 years old, 46% were female. 10% of patients had a past medical history of developmental delay, 8% had a known chromosomal abnormality and 20% had a known epilepsy. 70% of patients were monitored for a period of 24 hours or less. 24% of the studies were carried out in the sedated state. 8% of patients had only electroclinical seizures, 4% had only electrographic seizures and 12% had both electrographic and electroclinical. Only 18% of patients had a normal study. 36% of patients were on an antiepileptic medication at the time of monitoring. 6% of patients had deceased during the hospitalization. Conclusions: Seizures were present in 24% of patients monitored in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. The implementation of Video EEG monitoring in the critically ill patient is a valuable tool that has helped to direct diagnosis, treatment and prognosis in these patients.