What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a brain disorder that provokes recurrent, unpredictable seizures that affects nearly 50 million people worldwide
There exists many types of seizures divided into two main categories: focal and generalized. Generalized seizures originate from both halves of the brain, whereas focal seizures affect only one part. It is possible for focal seizures to evolve into generalized ones.
A seizure is the result of temporary alterations in the brain’s circuitry. The brain is constantly sending small electrical signals between neurons, otherwise known as brain cells. When the electrical signals become abnormal or imbalanced, a seizure occurs.
Most seizures range from seconds to a few minutes. They are sometimes accompanied by changes in level of consciousness as well as abnormal movements or behaviours.
Causes
Epilepsy can be the result of numerous factors, including genetics, structural malformations, infections, and injuries to the brain. The cause of epilepsy remains unknown in 50% of cases.
Treatment Options
Anti-Seizure Medications
Epilepsy medication is the first choice of treatment for nearly all patients. Many different options exist, depending on the type of seizures. Anti-seizure medications are successful in approximately 70% of patients.
Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy
This minimally invasive procedure is appropriate for patients with a small, localized disease that does not respond to medication. Through a small incision in the skull, a laser is projected into the brain to destroy the diseased cells without harming the surrounding tissue.
Hemispherectomy
This surgical procedure consists of removing or disconnecting, fully or partially, the diseased half of he brain. Patients whose disease is limited to one half of the brain and do not respond well to medication are potential candidates. The earlier the procedure occurs in a child’s life, the better the chances of a full recovery.
Watch our Co-Founder Dr. Aria Fallah’s presentation about this surgical technique!
VNS/RNS Devices
If surgery is not an option, Vagal Nerve Stimulators and Responsive Neurostimulation Devices can help reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures. They are implanted in the chest or skull respectively with the goal of disporting the epileptic nerve impulses before they spread.
