Surgery
Epilepsy Surgery
Epilepsy surgery removes or disconnects the small area of the brain causing seizures, for people whose epilepsy is not controlled by medicines.
Quick answer
Epilepsy Surgery: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Epilepsy surgery treats seizures that start in a specific, identifiable part of the brain by removing that area or disconnecting it from the rest of the brain, when medicines have not controlled the seizures.
- Why it is done: It is used for focal epilepsy that has not responded to several medicines, where detailed tests show seizures come from one area that can be safely removed without causing important loss of function.
- What happens: After extensive assessment (scans, EEG and other tests), the surgeon removes or disconnects the seizure-causing area during a craniotomy under general anaesthetic.
What it is
Epilepsy surgery treats seizures that start in a specific, identifiable part of the brain by removing that area or disconnecting it from the rest of the brain, when medicines have not controlled the seizures.
Why it is done
It is used for focal epilepsy that has not responded to several medicines, where detailed tests show seizures come from one area that can be safely removed without causing important loss of function.
What happens
After extensive assessment (scans, EEG and other tests), the surgeon removes or disconnects the seizure-causing area during a craniotomy under general anaesthetic. The exact operation depends on the location.
Recovery
A hospital stay of several days and recovery over weeks are usual. Medicines are usually continued for a time. Follow-up tracks seizure control, which can improve significantly or stop for some people.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include bleeding, infection, and effects on brain functions such as memory, language or vision, depending on the area. Careful assessment aims to ensure benefits outweigh these risks.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Epilepsy Surgery: frequently asked questions
Will surgery stop my seizures completely?
For carefully selected people, surgery can stop seizures or greatly reduce them, though results vary. Medicines are often continued at least for a time, and not everyone becomes seizure-free.
Why does epilepsy surgery need so much assessment first?
Detailed tests are needed to pinpoint exactly where seizures start and to check that removing that area will not damage vital functions such as memory, speech or movement.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Society of British Neurological Surgeons / relevant professional body
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