WADA test
Pronunciation: WAH-duh test
Invasive procedure using intracarotid amobarbital injection to temporarily inactivate one brain hemisphere for language and memory lateralization.
Full Definition
The WADA test, also known as the intracarotid amobarbital procedure (IAP), is an invasive neurological assessment used to determine language and memory lateralization prior to epilepsy surgery or other neurosurgical procedures. The test involves selective injection of sodium amobarbital into the internal carotid artery to temporarily anesthetize one cerebral hemisphere while testing the function of the contralateral hemisphere. This allows clinicians to identify which hemisphere is dominant for language and assess memory function in each hemisphere independently. The procedure helps predict potential cognitive deficits following surgical intervention and guides surgical planning to minimize functional morbidity. While still considered the gold standard for lateralization, the WADA test is increasingly being replaced by less invasive functional neuroimaging techniques.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Juhn Wada; capitalize properly and may use full name 'intracarotid amobarbital procedure' for clarity.
In Context
- "The WADA test confirmed left hemisphere language dominance and adequate bilateral memory function." — Pre-surgical epilepsy evaluation
- "Complications from the WADA test are rare but can include stroke or temporary hemiparesis." — Informed consent documentation