Image for the Wada test

the Wada test

The Wada test, also known as the sodium amobarbital test, is a procedure used to determine which side of the brain controls specific functions like speech and memory. During the test, a doctor injects a sedative into one side of the brain temporarily, which allows them to see how that side's activity affects a person's ability to speak or recall information. It helps doctors plan for brain surgery, particularly for epilepsy, by ensuring that critical functions are not disrupted. The test provides valuable information about brain function and organization before any interventions.