Epilepsy & Seizures Treatment
Recently Answered
- Q Why may I need a vagus nerve stimulator?
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Vagus nerve stimulation can be used in some people who have partial seizures, who have not responded well to antiepileptic medicines and who are not candidates for epilepsy surgery. VNS is used in combination with medicine or surgery. VNS does not... Full Answer
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- Q What should I expect after having a vagus nerve stimulator?
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The vagus nerve stimulator can start working right after the surgery (as soon as the doctor programs it). You may notice a slight bulge in the area under your collarbone where the device is. And the surgery will leave small scars on the side of your... Full Answer
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- Q What should I think about if I have a vagus nerve stimulator?
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Vagus nerve stimulation is not a cure for epilepsy, and it does not work for everyone. It does not replace the need for antiepileptic drugs. It is most likely to be available at an epilepsy center. Full Answer
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- Q What are the risks of a vagus nerve stimulator?
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The vagus nerve stimulator is considered safe. Mild side effects occur in some people when the device stimulates the nerve. The most common side effects include: Coughing. Throat pain. Hoarseness or slight voice changes. Shortness of breath.... Full Answer
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- Q What is the goal of epilepsy surgery?
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The goal of epilepsy surgery is to identify an abnormal area of brain tissue from which the seizures originate and remove it without causing any significant impairment. The brain is divided into two sides, called "hemispheres." Each side of the... Full Answer
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- Q What happens before epilepsy surgery?
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The purpose of the preoperative evaluation is to determine whether epilepsy surgery can be performed safely without damaging vital functions. This requires a detailed pre-surgical evaluation to identify seizure type, seizure frequency, and the... Full Answer
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- Q Do I need surgery if I have epilepsy?
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The majority of people with epilepsy do not need to have surgery. In most cases, seizures can be well controlled with anti-epileptic medications. However, researchers estimate that 30% to 40% of patients with epilepsy struggle with seizures that... Full Answer
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- Q What tests are performed before epilepsy surgery?
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The primary components of the pre-surgical evaluation for epilepsy surgery include: A detailed clinical history and physical examination A high resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brain Functional imaging: This is an attempt... Full Answer
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- Q What are the different types of epilepsy surgery?
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The following are different types of surgical procedures commonly used to treat epilepsy: Temporal lobectomy: This is the most successful type of epilepsy surgery, especially in the non-dominant side of the brain. Success rates of 60 to 80... Full Answer
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- Q What is extratemporal resection surgery for epilepsy?
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In an extratemporal resection surgery for epilepsy, dysfunctional brain tissue is surgically removed from areas outside the temporal lobes (sides of the brain). It is generally less successful than a temporal lobectomy unless a clear-cut tumor,... Full Answer
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