Providing advanced diagnostic services at the Center for Oto-Neurology
Comprehensive care for ear, hearing, speech, balance and neurological disorders
Established in 1977, the Center for Oto-Neurology has been a trusted provider of expert diagnostic and therapeutic services for patients in Savannah and surrounding areas. Our center specializes in evaluating and treating a wide range of conditions, including ear, hearing, speech, balance and central nervous system disorders.
We offer pioneering, advanced diagnostics and individualized care plans for patients of all ages, ensuring accurate diagnosis and effective management of oto-neurological conditions. Our team of board-certified audiologists and EEG technicians is committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care using the latest medical technology.
Our services
At the Center for Oto-Neurology, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic services for patients experiencing ear, speech, balance and neurological conditions. Our team of highly skilled audiologists and EEG technicians uses advanced technology to deliver accurate assessments and effective treatment plans. With a focus on personalized care, we strive to enhance each patient’s quality of life by offering precise diagnostics, clear communication and consistent support. Below, you’ll find detailed information about the specialized services we provide and how to prepare for your appointment.
Ambulatory EEG
An Ambulatory EEG continuously records brain activity while you go about your normal daily activities for 24 hours, helping to detect abnormal electrical signals. This test is often preceded by a standard resting EEG.
- Pre-Test Instructions:
- Wash your hair thoroughly before the test.
- Take your regular medications unless otherwise directed by your physician.
- For a sleep-deprived EEG, follow your physician's instructions regarding sleep schedule adjustments.
Audiometric Evaluation
This assessment includes a standard hearing test and specialized evaluations to pinpoint issues in the ear and auditory nerve. It is a key diagnostic tool for identifying hearing impairment and evaluating nerve function. The test duration is one hour, and no special preparations are required. If you use a hearing aid, please bring it with you.
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)
The ABR test uses computerized technology to assess the electrical pathways from the ear to the brainstem. This test diagnoses auditory nerve disorders and evaluates hearing function. During the test, small electrodes are placed on the ears and head, and you will listen to a series of clicks and tones through earphones. The test duration is one hour, and no special preparations are required.
Electroencephalogram (EEG)
An EEG detects and records electrical impulses in the brain using 22 strategically placed electrodes on the scalp. It is commonly used to diagnose seizures, epilepsy, and neurological conditions. The test duration is 2 hours. The EEG pre-test instructions are as follows: wash your hair thoroughly before the test. Take your regular medications unless instructed otherwise by your physician. For sleep-deprived EEGs, follow your physician’s instructions for modifying your sleep schedule.
Inpatient Testing: Electromyography (EMG)
The EMG records electrical activity in muscles to diagnose nerve and muscle disorders. This test is used to evaluate conditions such as neuropathy or muscular disorders. The test duration varies based on the area being tested. No special preparations are required.
Long-Term Digital Video EEG
This advanced diagnostic procedure combines continuous EEG recording with video monitoring over an extended period, aiding in the diagnosis of seizures and epilepsy. This test captures detailed brain activity data, enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Since the test direction is long-term monitoring, the time varies by case. Follow your physician's instructions for preparation.
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE)
This non-invasive test records sound in the external ear canal in response to an acoustic stimulus, assessing cochlear function, detecting peripheral hearing sensitivity issues. The test duration is 15 minutes. No special preparations are required.
Pediatric ABR/ASSR
The Pediatric ABR test evaluates hearing loss in infants and children. To ensure accurate results, children must be relaxed or asleep during the procedure. If necessary, hospital nursing staff will administer medication to promote sleep. The test duration is 1-3 hours.
Pre-Test Instructions:
- Infants and children (up to age 6): Avoid food or drink (except water) for three hours before the test.
- Children (6 years and older): Avoid food or drink (except water) for six hours prior.
If your child is sick (cold or fever) on the day of the test, call 912-819-2479 to reschedule. Keep your child awake the night before and avoid naps before testing. Two adults must accompany the child home.
Videonystagmography (VNG)
VNG testing evaluates the balance portion of the inner ear by recording eye movements in response to various stimuli. You will follow a moving target with your eyes, and warm and cool water will be introduced into your ear canals, which may induce slight dizziness. The test duration is 1-2 hours.
Pre-Test Instructions:
- Avoid medications for dizziness, nausea, allergy, cold or sinus issues for 24 hours before testing.
- Continue medications for heart conditions, blood pressure, diabetes or seizures.
- Do not eat, drink or smoke 2–4 hours before the test.
- Avoid wearing mascara or eyeliner. Bring makeup to apply afterward if desired.
- Diabetic or hypoglycemic patients: Eat a light snack instead of skipping a meal.
Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (VEMP)
This test uses loud sounds to measure muscle responses in the inner ear balance structures, responsible for linear movement. This test diagnoses inner ear balance disorders. It records two responses:
- Cervical VEMP (cVEMP): Measured at the neck.
- Ocular VEMP (oVEMP): Measured underneath the eyes.
The test duration is one hour. Avoid medications for dizziness, nausea, allergy or sinus issues for 24 hours prior. Consult with your physician before discontinuing prescribed medications.
Visual Evoked Response (VER)
The VER measures the time it takes for a televised image to travel from the eyes to the brain’s occipital lobe, assessing visual pathway function. The test duration is one hour. Bring your glasses if you wear them.
Contact us
At the Center for Oto-Neurology, we understand that every patient’s needs are unique. Our commitment to exceptional care and advanced diagnostics ensures that you receive the most accurate evaluation and tailored treatment plan possible. We encourage you to reach out with any questions or to schedule a consultation—our goal is to help you achieve better hearing, balance and overall well-being.
The Center for Oto-Neurology is located in the Danny Brown Building, across from the main entrance of St. Joseph's Hospital.
Address:
11702 Mercy Blvd., Plaza B (Second Floor)
Savannah, GA 31419
Phone: 912-819-2479
Fax: 912-819-2514
A physician’s referral is required for an appointment with one of our certified audiologists. Please have referrals faxed to 912-819-2514 before scheduling.
For more information, contact us at 912-819-2479.