Visual Evoked Response (VER)

What are visually evoked responses?

Visual evoked responses evaluate the visual nervous system from the eye to the brain.

Three or more electrodes are attached to the patient's scalp. The patient is asked to stare at a pattern on a video screen. Each eye is tested separately. A patch is placed over the eye not being tested.

Why is the visual evoked response test performed?

Visual evoked response is used to evaluate optic neuritis, optic tumors, retinal disorders and demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis.

Patient Preparation:

• The patient needs to be alert and well rested.
• The patient will need to bring glasses or contact lenses for the test.
• The patient should take all medications regularly, unless given other instructions by their physician.

Test time: 30 minutes

Attaching and Removing the Electrodes

The head is measured and each electrode is attached with electrode paste and a piece of gauze.

After the test the electrodes are removed with warm water and a washcloth. The patient's hair and skin remain intact. Normal washing of the hair will remove any leftover residue from the paste.

Test Results

The patient will learn the test results from either their neurologist or from a copy of the VER report sent to their referring physician.

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