A doctor activates the surface of a patient's brain by touching it with a small electrified wire and the patient tells the doctor what effect the stimulation had. Regarding this procedure, which of the following statements is TRUE?
A)This procedure is impossible because patients cannot be awake during brain procedures.
B)The doctor is performing an ablation.
C)The doctor is using an electrode to "turn on" brain structures.
D)The doctor is using an EEG to "turn on" brain structures.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The doctor is using an electrode to stimulate specific areas of the brain, a technique that allows for mapping of brain functions while the patient is awake. This is a common practice in neurosurgery to ensure critical areas of the brain are not damaged.

A Doctor Activates the Surface of a Patient's Brain by Touching