Evoked potentials monitoring of a cerebral focal ischemia model

A model of cerebral ischemia by microsphere embolization in the rabbit was monitored with somatosensory evoked potentials by median nerve stimulation (SEPs) and by flash visual evoked potential (VEPs). The degree of SEP alterations paralleled the type of lesions (focal or multifocal ischemia or diffuse oedema). Alterations present at the first hour after ischemia were generally unchanged during the follow-up, which ended at the 24th hour. The prevalence of VEP alterations was low (only 16% in focal ischemia). These results are compared to EEG modifications performed in the same animals.