Visual Evoked Potentials (VEP) Testing

Visual Evoked Potentials (VEPs) testing measures the signals from your visual pathway. Electrodes will be placed on your child’s head with a paste. It may be a little sticky, but we will be sure to get it all off at the end of the appointment.

Just like in a regular eye exam, it is necessary to check how each eye works on its own. This is done by patching the eye that isn’t being checked. If your child has glasses, you should bring them for this test. The two parts of visual evoked potentials (VEP) testing are Pattern VEP and Flash VEP.

Pattern VEP

Above: Checkerboard pattern for pattern VEP test

For the Pattern VEP, your child will be shown black and white squares that resemble a checkerboard on a TV screen. Your child will see the squares move and change in size throughout the test.

Flash VEP

Above: Handheld flashlight for flash VEP test and ERG

For the Flash VEP, your child will look at flashing lights from the handheld flashlight. It is important that they try to keep their eyes open as best as they can during each flash.