Epilepsy is a medical condition that involves recurrent seizures and can have a significant impact on your daily life. Living with the constant fear of the next seizure can restrict your independence and limit your ability to work, socialize, and participate in activities that you enjoy. Fortunately, for many people with epilepsy, epilepsy surgery is an option that goes beyond medication.

What is Epilepsy Surgery?

Epilepsy surgery is a specialized procedure that aims to remove the part of the brain where seizures start. This can significantly improve seizure control or even stop seizures altogether. India is a top destination for epilepsy surgery due to its advanced medical facilities, experienced specialists, and potentially lower treatment costs than Western countries.

Who is a Candidate for Epilepsy Surgery in India?

If you have epilepsy and medications haven’t controlled your seizures, you might be able to have epilepsy treatment in India. Here are some things that make you a good candidate:

• Focal Seizures: This type of seizure comes from a specific area of the brain. Surgery works best for people with focal seizures.

• Well-defined Seizure Onset Zone: Doctors can find the exact place where seizures start using tests like EEG and MRI. The more precise the location, the better the chances of successful surgery.

• Risks vs. Benefits: The choice for surgery involves carefully looking at the potential risks and benefits. If the risks are low and the possibility of being seizure-free is high, surgery may be the best choice.

Types of Epilepsy Surgery in India

There are different types of epilepsy treatment in India. Each type is tailored to the specific location and type of seizure activity.

• Lobectomy: This surgery involves removing a part of the brain lobe where seizures start.

• Corticectomy: This procedure involves removing a smaller area of the brain’s surface.

• Hippocampectomy: This surgery targets the hippocampus, a part of the brain linked to memory, if it’s the source of seizures.

• Multiple Subpial Transection (MST): This minimally invasive procedure severs the connections between brain cells that contribute to seizures.

Benefits of Epilepsy Surgery in India

Epilepsy surgery can have a life-changing impact on many people. Here are some of the potential benefits:

• Seizure Freedom: The main goal is to become seizure-free, allowing you to live a life without the constant fear of seizures.

• Reduced Medication Dependence: In many cases, surgery allows you to decrease or even eliminate the need for anti-seizure medications and their side effects.

• Improved Quality of Life: Gaining control over your seizures can significantly improve your overall well-being. You can participate more actively in work, hobbies, and social activities.

• Reduced Risk of Complications: Uncontrolled seizures can lead to injuries, accidents, and even sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Surgery can reduce this risk.

Are You Considering Epilepsy Surgery in India?

If you’re considering epilepsy treatment in India, it’s crucial to consult with an epilepsy specialist who can thoroughly assess your situation, discuss the potential risks and benefits of surgery, and guide you through the entire process.

Dr. Himanshu Champaneri, a highly skilled neurosurgeon with over 15 years of expertise in Functional, Epilepsy & Endoscopic Neurosurgery (FEENS) services, uniquely positions himself to offer comprehensive guidance on your specific condition and determine whether surgical intervention is necessary. Dr. Champaneri can provide in-depth support and insight into your condition, as well as offer expert advice on the necessity of surgery.