What instrumentation setting change enhances cortical slowing?

Changing the lower frequency filter (LFF) from 1Hz to 0.1Hz enhances cortical slowing by allowing the recording of slower brain wave activity that may be masked at higher cutoff frequencies. The LFF determines which low-frequency signals are captured in the EEG. A setting of 1Hz may attenuate or filter out very slow activities such as delta waves, which can be indicative of significant cortical slowing. By reducing the LFF to 0.1Hz, very slow waves are transmitted through the filter, making them more visible on the EEG. This can be particularly important in diagnosing conditions such as encephalopathy or significant brain dysfunction, where cortical slowing is a key finding.

Adjusting the LFF downwards effectively increases sensitivity to lower frequency activity, allowing for a better assessment of the underlying brain function, particularly in clinical settings where detecting cortical slowing is essential.