Epilepsy surgery

Epilepsy is a disorder in which brain cells called neurons show abnormal electrical activity, leading to involuntary limb movements/unconsciousness (convulsions or fits)

A subset of such patients have the abnormal electrical activity localized to a particular region of brain. A detailed evaluation by an epileptologist help identify such patients. These patients can benefit from surgical intervention. 

Each episode of seizure takes it’s toll on the brain. Also the medications used can have their ill effects on the brain. Early surgery in selected patients help avoid such effects. 

The part of the brain found abnormal on clinical, radiological and EEG examination is surgically excised to make the patient free of fits.

Symptoms:

1. Seizures: The hallmark symptom of epilepsy is seizures. Seizures can manifest in different ways, including convulsions (uncontrolled shaking or jerking movements), loss of consciousness, staring spells, or abnormal sensations.
2. Temporary confusion: After a seizure, individuals may experience a period of confusion, disorientation, or have difficulty remembering what happened during the seizure.
3. Aura: Some people with epilepsy may experience an aura before a seizure occurs. An aura is a warning sign or sensation that precedes a seizure and can vary from person to person. Examples include a strange smell, taste, visual disturbances, or a sense of déjà vu.
4. Uncontrollable movements: Seizures can cause involuntary movements such as jerking of limbs, repetitive motions, or twitching.
5. Temporary loss of awareness: Some seizures may cause a person to briefly lose awareness of their surroundings. They may appear “spaced out” or stare into space.
6. Sensory disturbances: Seizures can involve abnormal sensations, such as tingling or numbness, visual disturbances (flashing lights or colors), hearing unusual sounds, or experiencing strange tastes or smells.
7. Emotional changes: Epilepsy can affect a person’s emotions, leading to mood swings, anxiety, fear, or intense joy without apparent cause.
8. Loss of consciousness: Certain seizures can result in a complete loss of consciousness, where the person becomes unresponsive and unaware of their surroundings.
9. Behavioral changes: Some individuals with epilepsy may exhibit behavioral changes during or after a seizure. This can include repetitive behaviors, aggression, confusion, or irritability.
10. Physical symptoms: Seizures may cause physical symptoms like drooling, clenching of teeth, biting the tongue or cheek, or loss of bowel or bladder control.

It’s important to note that epilepsy is a complex condition, and symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. If you suspect you or someone you know may have epilepsy, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Causes and Risk Factors

Epilepsy can have various causes, and in some cases, the cause may not be identified. Here are several common causes and risk factors associated with epilepsy:

1. Idiopathic: In many cases, the exact cause of epilepsy is unknown, and it is referred to as idiopathic epilepsy. It is believed to be related to genetic factors or abnormalities in brain development.
2. Genetic factors: Some forms of epilepsy have a genetic component, meaning they can run in families. Certain genes can increase the risk of developing epilepsy or make a person more susceptible to seizures.
3. Brain structural abnormalities: Abnormalities in the structure of the brain can be a cause of epilepsy. These abnormalities may result from conditions such as brain tumors, malformations of cortical development, brain injuries, or strokes.
4. Prenatal factors: Epilepsy can be caused by prenatal factors that affect brain development. These factors may include prenatal exposure to infections, maternal drug or alcohol use, certain genetic disorders, or insufficient oxygen supply to the baby’s brain during pregnancy or childbirth.
5. Traumatic brain injury (TBI): Seizures can occur as a result of head injuries that lead to damage in the brain. This can include injuries from accidents, falls, or sports-related trauma.
6. Infections: Certain infections that affect the brain, such as meningitis, encephalitis, or neurocysticercosis (caused by a tapeworm infection), can increase the risk of developing epilepsy.
7. Stroke and cardiovascular conditions: A stroke, which is caused by disrupted blood flow to the brain, can result in epilepsy. Other cardiovascular conditions, such as heart disease or blood vessel abnormalities, may also contribute to the development of epilepsy.
8. Developmental disorders: Individuals with certain developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder or neurofibromatosis, have an increased risk of epilepsy.
9. Metabolic disorders: Certain metabolic disorders, such as mitochondrial diseases or inborn errors of metabolism, can lead to epilepsy.
10. Exposure to toxins: Prolonged exposure to toxic substances, such as lead, carbon monoxide, or certain medications, can increase the risk of seizures and epilepsy.