Curative surgery
The purpose of these procedures is to stop seizures completely. A small number of those with LGS may qualify for these types of surgery. Resections are surgeries that remove part of the brain, while a disconnection is a procedure that disconnects part of the brain while leaving the rest of the brain intact. Other surgeries may destroy a small or large part of the brain with heat (laser), radiation, or by preventing blood flow. They include:
- Laser ablation
- Lesionectomy
- Lobectomy
- Hemispheric surgeries
- Amygdalohippocampectomy
- Hippocampal transection
- Posterior quadrant resection or disconnection (also known as temporoparietaloccipital disconnection or TPO)
Neuromodulation
Neuromodulation is a type of technology that acts directly upon nerves. A doctor implants a device in a person, which alters nerve activity by delivering electrical impulses directly to specific nerves. The most common types of neuromodulation used in LGS are Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS), Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS), and Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). All of these require some type of surgery to implant the device.
Palliative surgery
Some procedures do not aim to stop seizures completely but instead aim to stop them after they begin or reduce their frequency. We know these as palliative procedures. They include:
A Quick Guide to Epilepsy Surgery for Parents
This brief guide introduces you to the various surgeries to consider to stop drug-resistance seizures in childhood.
Thank you to Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Alliance for the use and adaptation of this article. Please visit them to learn more about Epilepsy Surgery.
The information here is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice and should not be considered a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. The content provided is for informational purposes only. LGS Foundation is not responsible for actions taken based on the information included on this webpage. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.
Updated 10/16/24 (SC)