Terrence D. Lagerlund, M.D.

The research of Terrence D. Lagerlund, M.D., focuses on mathematical analysis of the electroencephalogram (EEG), especially EEG source localization as it relates to better localization of epileptic seizures, which is important for determining whether a patient is a candidate for epilepsy surgery.

Focus areas

• EEG dynamics using high-density scalp electrodes. Patients undergoing video EEG monitoring in the hospital epilepsy monitoring unit to localize their seizures for possible epilepsy surgery usually have their EEG recorded with 31 scalp electrodes. Together with other researchers in the Mayo Systems Electrophysiology Laboratory, Dr. Lagerlund has recorded selected patients with 75 scalp electrodes — forming a high-density array — and has applied new techniques such as the Laplacian montage to the high-density EEG to determine whether seizures may be more accurately localized in this way.

Significance to patient care

If a patient's seizures can be more accurately localized during video EEG monitoring with scalp electrodes, it may lead to a better outcome during the second phase of video EEG monitoring using electrodes placed surgically on and within the brain regions suspected to be involved in seizure onset, and ultimately may lead to better outcomes of epilepsy surgery.