Epilepsy Surgery in Noida, Delhi Ncr, India

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which can be debilitating and significantly impact a person’s quality of life. In some cases, when traditional medication-based treatments fail to effectively manage the seizures, epilepsy surgery may be considered as a viable option.

What is Epilepsy Surgery?

Epilepsy surgery is a medical procedure aimed at removing or modifying the area of the brain responsible for generating seizures. This type of surgery is typically recommended when a person has tried two or more anti-epileptic medications without success in controlling their seizures.

The primary goal of epilepsy surgery is to treat the seizures without compromising the normal functions of the brain. Before the surgery, various diagnostic tests are performed to determine the precise location and cause of the seizures, as well as to assess the individual’s eligibility for the procedure.

Types of Epilepsy Surgery

There are several different types of epilepsy surgery, each tailored to the specific needs of the patient. These include:

Resective Surgery: In this procedure, the surgeon removes the part of the brain where the seizures originate, often located in the temporal lobe, which is responsible for emotions, visual memory, and language comprehension.

Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT): This is a less invasive approach where a laser is used to precisely target and remove the brain tissue responsible for the seizures, guided by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Deep Brain Stimulation: This involves the implantation of a device deep within the brain that delivers electrical signals to disrupt the abnormal neuronal activity causing the seizures.

Corpus Callosotomy: In this procedure, the part of the brain that connects the left and right hemispheres (the corpus callosum) is partially or completely severed, preventing the abnormal brain activity from spreading across the two sides.

Hemispherectomy: This is a more extensive surgery where one entire half of the cerebral cortex (the outer layer of the brain) is removed or disconnected, typically performed on children with seizures originating from multiple sites in one hemisphere.

Functional Hemispherectomy: A less invasive version of the hemispherectomy, where the connections between the two brain hemispheres are severed without removing the entire hemisphere.

Eligibility for Epilepsy Surgery

Epilepsy surgery in Noida, India may be considered for individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Uncontrollable seizures or adverse effects from anti-seizure medications
• Focal seizures (seizures originating from a specific, localized area of the brain)
• Seizures caused by a known brain abnormality, such as arteriovenous malformation, birth defect, scar tissue, or brain tumor
• Seizures that significantly impact the person’s quality of life
• Seizures that spread to the entire brain (secondary generalization)

It is important to note that the selection of the appropriate surgical approach and the eligibility for the procedure are determined by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including neurologists, neurosurgeons, and other specialists, based on a comprehensive evaluation of the individual’s medical history and current condition.

Surgical Tests for Epilepsy Surgery

When determining the need for epilepsy surgery, a comprehensive evaluation is conducted by a medical team. This assessment involves various surgical tests to pinpoint the seizure-affected area of the brain and understand its functions. Here are the key tests performed:

Locating the Surgical Area

• EEG (Baseline Electroencephalogram): This test measures the brain’s electrical activity by placing electrodes on the scalp, helping identify the affected regions.

• Video EEG: Conducted during the patient’s hospital stay, this test monitors and records seizures, correlating EEG changes with physical movements to locate the seizure origin.

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Using radio waves and magnetic fields, MRI provides detailed images of tumors, damaged cells, or other factors that can cause seizures.

Determining Abnormal Activity and Seizure Source

• Invasive EEG Monitoring: If a standard EEG does not provide sufficient information, surgeons may opt for this test, which involves placing electrodes directly on the brain surface or deep within.
• Video EEG with Invasive Electrodes: The surgically implanted electrodes are used for video EEG, allowing the team to record EEG and video data without medication during the patient’s hospital stay.
• PET (Positron Emission Tomography): This imaging technique measures brain function, and the data can be combined with MRI information to identify the seizure source.
• SPECT (Single-Photon Emission Computerized Tomography): This test gauges blood flow during a seizure, with increased blood flow indicating the seizure’s origin.

Understanding Brain Functions

• Functional MRI: This test helps surgeons identify brain regions responsible for specific functions, such as language or motor control.
• Wada Test: In this procedure, a medication is used to temporarily “put to sleep” one side of the brain, allowing assessment of memory and language dominance.
• Brain Mapping: Surgically placed electrodes on the brain surface are used to measure electrical activity as the patient performs various tasks, mapping the brain’s functional areas.
• Neuropsychological Tests: These additional assessments evaluate memory, verbal and non-verbal learning skills, and help identify affected brain regions.

By thoroughly evaluating the patient through these specialized tests, the medical team can develop a comprehensive understanding of the seizure focus and the brain’s critical functions, allowing for a safer and more effective epilepsy surgery.

Complications of Epilepsy Surgery

While epilepsy surgery offers the potential for seizure control, it carries inherent risks, including:

• Blood clots
• Infections
• Excessive bleeding
• Headaches
• Strokes
• Anesthesia reactions
• Language and memory problems
• Impaired vision
• Mood swings or depression
• One-sided paralysis

To minimize these risks, healthcare providers conduct extensive pre-surgical testing and brain mapping to precisely identify the seizure origin and avoid critical functional areas of the brain. However, some level of risk remains, and patients must be fully informed of the potential complications.

Epilepsy Surgery Procedure

During the surgery, the patient’s oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure are carefully monitored. An EEG monitor is used to record brain activity and help localize the seizure-affected region.

The patient is typically given anesthesia to remain unconscious throughout the procedure. In some cases, the patient may be briefly awakened to allow surgeons to determine the areas controlling movement and language functions.

Depending on the type of surgery, the surgeon creates a small window or hole in the skull. After the procedure, the bone window is replaced, and the skull is sealed to allow healing.

Post-Surgery Care and Outcomes

After surgery, patients receive close monitoring in the intensive care unit (ICU). The hospital stay typically lasts 3-4 days. The patient may experience pain and swelling, which can be managed with pain medication and ice packs. Complete bed rest is advised for several weeks, with a gradual increase in daily activities.

The success of epilepsy surgery is primarily measured by the patient’s ability to achieve seizure control, often with the continued use of anti-epileptic medications. If the patient remains seizure-free for at least one year, the healthcare team may consider discontinuing medication. However, if seizures recur after medication is stopped, the anti-seizure drugs will be resumed to maintain seizure control.

How Metro Can Help with Epilepsy Treatment

At Metro Hospitals, we provide comprehensive and personalized treatment for epilepsy, including the best epilepsy surgery in Noida. Our experienced multidisciplinary team offers proper assistance throughout the patient’s recovery period, and our advanced minimally invasive procedures can help people improve their quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Seizures Usually Last?

Seizures can last from a few seconds to a few minutes, depending on the type of seizure the patient is experiencing. To effectively manage recurring seizures, it’s crucial to contact Metro Hospitals and schedule an appointment for epilepsy surgery in Noida.

Do All Seizures Indicate Epilepsy?

No, not all seizures are a sign of epilepsy. Seizures can also occur due to other medical conditions, such as low blood sugar, high fever, or alcohol withdrawal. If you or a loved one is experiencing seizures, it’s important to consult with the specialists at Metro Hospitals to properly diagnose and understand the appropriate treatment options, including epilepsy surgery in Noida.

How Can Epilepsy Be Prevented?

While there is no surefire way to prevent epilepsy, there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• Prevent brain injuries by wearing proper safety equipment and taking precautions.
• Manage conditions like heart disease and stroke, which can increase the risk of epilepsy.
• Ensure you are up-to-date on recommended vaccinations.
• If these preventive measures are not effective, epilepsy surgery in Noida at Metro Hospitals may be the best option to manage your condition.

Can Epilepsy Cause Death?

Most people with epilepsy live a full life, but in some special cases, the risk of early death is higher. The effectiveness and long-term impact of epilepsy surgery in Noida can only be determined by your doctor, who will provide a personalized assessment and treatment plan.

Can Epilepsy Patients Play Sports?

Generally, exercise is not a common trigger for seizures in epilepsy patients. Therefore, most epilepsy patients can participate in sports, but it’s important to take precautions and avoid activities that could lead to injury. Always consult with your doctor at Metro Hospitals for specific guidance on sports and physical activities.