Wada test

The Wada test is a medical procedure used to determine which side of a person’s brain controls language and memory functions. During the test, a temporary anesthetic is injected into one of the carotid arteries, numbing one hemisphere of the brain. While this side is inactive, doctors assess the patient's language, memory, and motor skills. This helps surgeons plan brain surgery, especially for epilepsy, to avoid damaging critical areas responsible for speech and thinking. By testing each side separately, the Wada test provides valuable information about brain organization.