Epilepsy Surgery

Epilepsy Surgery

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are caused by sudden, excessive electrical discharges in the brain. While many patients can manage epilepsy through medication, approximately 30–40% of individuals have drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE)—meaning their seizures are not controlled with medication alone. For these patients, surgical intervention may provide lasting relief and a significantly improved quality of life.

India is recognized globally for its excellence in epilepsy care, offering access to highly specialized neurology centers, experienced neurosurgeons, and affordable, high-tech surgical options.

What Is Epilepsy Surgery?

Epilepsy surgery refers to a range of surgical procedures aimed at removing, disconnecting, or modifying the part of the brain where seizures begin. The goal of the surgery is either:

• To eliminate seizures entirely, or
• To reduce their frequency and severity when full removal is not possible.

Before recommending surgery, patients typically undergo a detailed pre-surgical workup, which may include:

• Video EEG monitoring to identify the origin of seizures
• MRI and PET scans to locate abnormalities in the brain
• Functional brain mapping to ensure critical areas (speech, movement, memory) are preserved
• Neuropsychological evaluation to assess brain function and potential post-surgical outcomes

Types of Epilepsy Surgery

Depending on the cause and location of seizures, the following surgical procedures may be considered:

1. Temporal Lobectomy

The most commonly performed epilepsy surgery. It involves the removal of a portion of the temporal lobe, typically to address mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE). Success rates for seizure freedom can reach up to 70–80%.

2. Lesionectomy

If seizures are caused by a tumor, scar tissue, or cortical malformation, the lesion is surgically removed. Outcomes depend on lesion location and type but are generally favorable when the focus is well-defined.

3. Corpus Callosotomy

This procedure disconnects the two hemispheres of the brain to prevent seizure spread. It is often used in children with drop attacks (atonic seizures) and severe generalized epilepsy.

4. Hemispherectomy

In rare, extreme cases—usually in children with severe damage to one hemisphere—this surgery removes or disconnects a large portion of the affected hemisphere. It is highly effective for controlling seizures and improving development when performed early.

5. Neurostimulation Devices

For patients who are not suitable for resective surgery, devices such as:

• Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
• Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS)
• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

can help modulate brain activity and significantly reduce seizure frequency.

Who Is a Candidate for Surgery?

Epilepsy surgery may be recommended for patients who:

• Have been diagnosed with focal epilepsy, where seizures begin in a specific area of the brain
• Have failed at least two appropriate anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs)
• Experience seizures that severely impact quality of life, safety, education, or employment
• Have a seizure focus that can be safely removed or disconnected

Benefits of Epilepsy Surgery

• Seizure Freedom or Significant Reduction in seizure frequency
• Improved Quality of Life, social interaction, and independence
• Reduced Medication Load, decreasing side effects and long-term toxicity
• Improved Cognitive Performance, especially in children after early intervention
• Fewer Emergency Visits and Hospitalizations due to uncontrolled seizures

Why Choose India for Epilepsy Surgery?

India is increasingly chosen by international patients for epilepsy care due to:

• World-renowned epilepsy centers with specialized neurology and neurosurgery teams
• Advanced technology such as intraoperative MRI, functional mapping, and neuronavigation
• Significantly lower costs compared to Western countries without compromising quality
• No long waiting times, allowing timely surgical intervention
• Multilingual support and dedicated international patient departments

How 4R Consultancy Helps

At 4R Consultancy, we help patients and families navigate the process of epilepsy treatment in India with ease and confidence:

• Evaluation of your medical history, seizure reports, and imaging
• Second opinions from India's top epileptologists and neurosurgeons
• Hospital selection and appointment coordination
• Visa, travel, and accommodation support
• Follow-up and post-operative guidance

Interested in Epilepsy Surgery?

If you or your loved one is living with drug-resistant epilepsy and want to explore surgical options, please send us your medical reports via Viber or WhatsApp, or fill out our contact form with your details. Our expert team at 4R Consultancy will help you access the best epilepsy care centers in India and guide you through every step of your journey to recovery.