A permanent and personalized solution for epileptic seizures that cannot be controlled with medication.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a disease characterized by recurrent seizures caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain. While some types of epilepsy can be controlled with medication, seizures persist in refractory epilepsy. In these cases, surgery may offer the patient the chance to live a seizure-free life.
What is Refractory (Drug-Resistant) Epilepsy?
Persistence of seizures despite at least two appropriate antiepileptic drugs
Seizures are of such frequency and severity that they affect daily life.
MRI, EEG and clinical data show a focal point
In these cases, you may be a candidate for epilepsy surgery.
What is the Goal in Epilepsy Surgery?
Our goal is to remove or neutralize the epileptic focus (the area where the seizure begins) without damaging the functional areas of the brain. Thus:
-
Seizure frequency and severity are reduced
-
Complete seizure control (seizure-free) can be achieved
-
The number and dosage of medications can be reduced
-
Quality of life improves significantly
Diagnostic Process Leading to Surgery
Each patient is evaluated by a multidisciplinary epilepsy council. Necessary tests include:
Video-EEG monitoring: Determining the source of the seizure
Magnetic Resonance (MRI): Is there a lesion? (e.g. Focal Cortical Dysplasia, hippocampal sclerosis)
PET, SPECT: Functional imaging if no lesion is seen
Neuropsychological tests: Memory, attention, speech functions
fMRI or WADA testing: Mapping functional areas
Surgical Methods We Apply
-
Focal Resection / Lobectomy
Removal of the epileptic focus (e.g. temporal lobectomy)
-
Hemispherotomy
Disabling of one half of the brain (most often in children)
-
Subpial Transection / Corpus Callosotomy
Incisions that prevent seizure spread (in generalized seizures)
-
Vagal Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
Pacemaker implantation in the neck to reduce seizures in patients unfit for surgery
Post-Operative Process
-
Usually 3-4 days of hospital stay
-
EEG and neurological evaluation every 3–6 months
-
Medication reduction according to seizure control
-
Psychological support and rehabilitation support (in necessary cases)
-
Long-term follow-up
Who is a Suitable Candidate?
-
Those with epileptic focus detected on MRI (e.g. FCD, mesial temporal sclerosis)
-
Even if there is no lesion on MRI, those with focus determined by EEG/PET
-
Intractable seizures causing developmental delay in pediatric patients
-
Individuals with seizure frequency that disrupts daily life
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
-
Will I be completely cured with surgery?
Complete seizure freedom can be achieved in some patients. Success depends on the precise location of the seizure focus. -
Will there be memory loss or speech impairment?
These risks are minimal in surgeries performed without touching functional areas. If necessary, fMRI or WADA protection is provided. -
Can surgery be performed on children?
Yes, early surgery provides greater benefits, especially in children with developmental disabilities.
