epilepsy

Pediatric neurosurgery for epilepsy involves surgical interventions aimed at treating epilepsy in children who do not respond well to medications. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. In cases where seizures cannot be controlled through medication alone, surgery may be considered as an option to improve seizure control and overall quality of life.

Indications for Epilepsy Surgery:

• Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: When seizures persist despite optimal medical treatment with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Typically defined as having seizures that remain uncontrolled despite trials of at least two different AEDs.
• Focal Seizures: Seizures that originate from a specific area of the brain. Surgery is most effective when seizures are localized to a specific region that can be safely resected or modified.
• Seizure Mapping: When diagnostic tests identify a specific brain area responsible for the seizures.

Prognosis:

• Variable Outcomes: Depends on the type of epilepsy, the location of the seizure focus, and the extent of the resection or modification.
• Seizure Reduction: Many children experience significant reduction in seizure frequency or become seizure-free after surgery.
• Quality of Life: Improvements in cognitive function, behavior, and overall quality of life can be significant following successful surgery.

Pediatric neurosurgery for epilepsy offers a promising option for children with drug-resistant epilepsy, aiming to reduce or eliminate seizures and improve quality of life. Early and accurate diagnosis, comprehensive pre-surgical evaluation, and tailored surgical intervention are essential for optimizing outcomes.