Epilepsy Surgery: Advancing Care with More Options

Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder in the United States, with 1 in 26 people diagnosed with epilepsy in their lifetime.

Fortunately, patients today have more treatment options that deliver better outcomes than ever before. From new medications to less-invasive approaches to surgery, there are many options to discuss with your doctor. Many patients whose seizures aren’t controlled with medication are greatly benefiting from the latest advances in surgical treatments.

Epilepsy surgery is generally only considered an option after you have tried at least two anti-seizure medications and have not been able to gain control of your seizures. Your medical team will work closely with you to navigate the path through medicine and other treatment options before discussing surgery.

If your team begins talking about surgery, it’s important to learn about the many different treatment options and surgical approaches. Today’s advanced care includes delivering techniques that are less invasive and offer a faster recovery time including:

• Stereo-electroencephalography (SEEG) – A surgical technique that enables neurosurgeons to pinpoint the origin of the seizures in the brain without a traditional open brain procedure making it safer and less painful.
• Minimally invasive laser ablation – Using laser technology (light energy), this method can target the areas of the brain causing epileptic seizures. The energy is delivered through a probe to the problem area and as the temperature begins to rise, the unwanted tissue is destroyed, thereby removing the source of the seizures. During the procedure, neurosurgeons are guided by real-time MRI images giving precise control to ensure the surrounding tissue is left unharmed.

Your doctor may also discuss traditional surgical approaches, depending on what’s best for you.

Learn more now about the treatment options available at Emory Epilepsy Center.