EEG Signal Processing: Theory and Applications

Abstract

The electroencephalogram (EEG) is a dynamic noninvasive and relatively inexpensive technique used to monitor the state of the brain. The International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology defines the EEG as “(1) the science relating to the electrical activity of the brain, and (2) the technique of recording electroencephalograms” [1]. EEG has a number of clinical uses that range from monitoring normal wakefulness or arousal states to complex clinical situations involving seizure or coma. The brain contains unique information in many regions at any given time. An EEG signal recorded with electrodes placed on the scalp consists of many waves with different characteristics. Arrays of electrodes are distributed over the entire scalp. The large amount of data recorded from even a single EEG electrode pair presents a difficult interpretation challenge. Signal processing methods are needed to automate signal analysis and interpret the signal phenomena.