Introduction to Epilepsy
What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures—brief episodes of involuntary movement or altered consciousness due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
What Causes Epilepsy?
- Genetic factors
- Head trauma or brain injury
- Stroke
- Brain tumors
- Infections like meningitis or encephalitis
Types of Seizures:
- Focal Seizures (start in one area of the brain)
- Generalized Seizures (involve both hemispheres)
- Unknown Onset Seizures
What Is Epilepsy Surgery?
Epilepsy surgery involves a neurosurgical procedure to remove or alter brain tissue where seizures originate, helping reduce or eliminate seizures.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is typically recommended for patients who:
- Don’t respond to anti-epileptic medications
- Experience frequent or disabling seizures
- Have a clearly identified seizure focus
Goals of Surgery:
- Seizure freedom or significant reduction
- Improved cognition, mental health, and daily life
Who Is a Candidate for Epilepsy Surgery?
Surgery may be appropriate for patients with:
- Drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) – seizures that persist despite trying two or more medications
- Seizures originating in a localized brain area identifiable on imaging
- Daily life disruptions due to frequent or severe seizures
Pre-Surgical Evaluation
A thorough evaluation helps determine if surgery is safe and effective for the patient.
Tests and Imaging Include:
- Video EEG Monitoring to capture seizure activity
- MRI Brain Scan for structural assessment
- PET/SPECT Scans to identify seizure foci
- Neuropsychological Testing for brain function evaluation
- Functional MRI or Wada Test to assess language and memory areas
- Visit our Advanced Imaging & Diagnostics section for details.
Types of Epilepsy Surgeries
We offer a wide range of surgical options based on seizure type and location:
- Resective Surgery: Removal of seizure-causing brain tissue (e.g., temporal lobectomy)
- Lesionectomy: Removal of tumors or malformations
- Corpus Callosotomy: Disconnection between brain hemispheres to prevent seizure spread
- Hemispherectomy: Removal or disconnection of one brain hemisphere (for severe cases)
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): Implantation of a device that reduces seizure activity
- Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS): A device that detects and disrupts seizures in real-time
Epilepsy Surgery Procedure Overview
- Admission and Preparation: Includes routine tests and final evaluation
- Anesthesia: Usually general
- Surgical Steps: Depend on the procedure type and brain region involved
- Duration: Typically 3–6 hours depending on complexity
Benefits of Epilepsy Surgery
- Significant reduction or complete control of seizures
- Improved mood, memory, and concentration
- Reduced dependency on medications
- Enhanced independence and quality of life
Risks and Complications
Although generally safe, surgery carries some risks:
- Memory or speech changes (based on surgery location)
- Infection or bleeding
- Bleeding
- Stroke (rare)
- Temporary neurological deficits
Our team uses neuro-navigation and intraoperative monitoring to minimize these risks.
Recovery After Epilepsy Surgery
- Hospital Stay: Usually 3–7 days
- Activity: Gradual resumption over 4–6 weeks
- Seizure Monitoring: Continued EEGs and follow-ups
- Support: Includes physiotherapy, cognitive rehab, and psychological care
Life After Epilepsy Surgery
Many patients report a dramatic improvement in life after surgery:
- Seizure freedom or better seizure control
- Reduced medications and fewer side effects
- Ability to drive, continue education, or return to work
- Support via counseling
Why Choose Aditya Birla Hospital for Epilepsy Surgery?
- Highly experienced epilepsy surgeons and neurologists
- Comprehensive epilepsy team: neurology, neuropsychology, rehab, and more
- NABH & ACHS accredited international standards of care
- Full patient journey support from diagnosis to recovery
Aditya Birla Hospital is widely recognized as the best neurology hospital in Pimpri, Pune, and a leading center for epilepsy surgery. With a team of the best neurologists and expert neurosurgeons in Pimpri Pune, the hospital offers advanced neurological care using cutting-edge technology, focused on improving seizure control and enhancing the quality of life for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.
