Before surgery, participants will:
- Learn about the study and answer surveys
- Answer thinking and memory questions and play an attention game
- Get a blood sample drawn
- Have brain activity recorded using electroencephalography (EEG), similar to a swim cap
- Have pictures of your brain taken using MRI
- Be offered hotel, lunch, dinner, parking voucher, and hotel to hospital transportation to ease the stress of surgery
- Answer questions about thinking and memory
- Get a blood sample drawn
What to expect during an Electroencephalogram (EEG):
An EEG is a safe, non-invasive way to measure the electrical activity in your brain. To get started, we will place a clean, cloth swim-style cap on your head. The cap has small electrodes attached with thin wires. These electrodes will not stick to your scalp, and do not cause any discomfort.
For the electrodes to pick up the electrical activity in your brain we will apply a water-based gel in each electrode. You may feel a slight tickle as gel is applied, but this is completely painless/
During the EEG, you will watch a computer screen and complete a simple task. Once you are done, we will remove the cap and brush the gel out of your hair. If you prefer, you can do this part yourself, or leave your hair as is. Many participants bring a hat, hair tie, or cap, but we also provide tools like mirrors, hair dryers, and even a spot hair wash station if you’d like to freshen up before leaving.
Since the gel is water-based, if you choose to leave the gel in your hair and wash it out later at your hotel or home, it will not damage your hair. We aim to make your EEG experience as comfortable as possible while collecting important data!
What to expect during an MRI/fMRI:
We’ll use MRI to take detailed pictures of your brain. This technology uses radio waves and a large magnet to capture images of the brain’s structure non-invasively, while fMRI does the same and allows us to see brain activity in real-time.
Before the scan, you’ll be asked to remove any metal or magnetized objects (like jewelry, keys, or credit cards), and we’ll screen you for any metal implants or medical devices to ensure your safety.
To monitor your body during the scan:
- A loose, comfortable belt will be placed lightly across your chest to track your breathing.
- A removable pulse oximeter will be placed on your finger to measure heart rate and oxygen levels.
- Two small adhesive sensors may be placed on your palm to monitor stress and attention.
These monitoring devices are completely safe, temporary, and non-invasive.
You’ll lie on a comfortable bed, and we’ll provide earplugs to protect your hearing from the sounds of the MRI machine. If you need help placing the earplugs, we’re happy to assist. The bed will gently slide into a tunnel just over 2 feet wide.
The scan typically lasts about an hour, during which you’ll need to stay as still as possible. Don’t worry—you may have brief opportunities to adjust your position between sections, and we’ll guide you throughout the process. While the earplugs will reduce noise, you’ll still hear the machine and our instructions.
We’ll also stay connected with you the whole time to ensure your comfort and safety. Our goal is to make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible!
Concierge Experience:
Rest is important, especially as you prepare for surgery! To make your visit as smooth and comfortable as possible, our study team will arrange a one-night stay at a local hotel for you and a family member, if you choose to bring one. Many participants chose to come see us the day before their surgery to stay close by and let the study team handle the logistics.
During your research visit, we’ll provide snacks, a catered lunch for you and your guest, and a dinner reservation at the Washington Duke Inn or another local restaurant of your choice. Our goal is to ensure you feel supported and cared for throughout your participation.
If you live locally and would like to opt out of the hotel and dinner, you will be provided a $200 gift card as a thank you for your participation.
