Short circuit in the brain

Epilepsy is a short circuit in the brain caused by sudden, excessive electrical discharges. Rick: “Most epileptic attacks (seizures) occur in a specific part of the brain (focal seizures) and thus have their own symptomatic characteristics. A seizure in the speech area of the frontal lobe for example can cause temporary speaking problems. What people think of when they hear the word epilepsy; someone falling on the ground and shocking, isn’t as common as these focal seizures.

Medicinal treatment vs. surgical

Epilepsy is largely managed with medication. But often people still experience seizures despite using this medication (drug-resistant), holding a considerable risk for young children and adults. “Especially in children impairment of cognitive function, development and quality of life are often seen, and in addition aren’t always able to participate in the same activities as other children. Adults are at risk in everyday situations, such as a seizure while climbing stairs or while cycling through traffic, harbouring the risk of early death.”

When patients are drug-resistant, they are referred to one of three Dutch hospitals specialised in epilepsy surgery. MUMC+ is one of them in close cooperation with epilepsy expertise center Kempenhaeghe. “Many studies prove that surgery is beneficial over medication. However, our healthcare system isn’t capable of performing surgery on everyone with epilepsy. So, we focus our surgical efforts on those who need it most.”