Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. When medications cannot adequately control seizures, surgical treatment may offer the best chance for seizure freedom. Nova Brain and Spine of GA provides comprehensive epilepsy surgery evaluation and treatment.
When Epilepsy Surgery is Considered
- Seizures not controlled by two or more medications (drug-resistant epilepsy)
- Seizures significantly impair quality of life, work, or safety
- A surgically treatable seizure focus can be identified
- Benefits of surgery outweigh the risks
Surgical Evaluation
A thorough presurgical workup includes:
- Video-EEG monitoring to capture and localize seizures
- High-resolution brain MRI
- Neuropsychological testing
- PET and SPECT scanning when indicated
- Invasive EEG monitoring for complex cases
Surgical Treatment Options
Resective Surgery
- Temporal lobectomy: Most common; 60-80% seizure-free rate
- Lesionectomy: Removal of seizure-causing brain lesions
- Focal cortical resection: For non-temporal seizure foci
Neuromodulation
- Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS): Reduces seizure frequency
- Responsive neurostimulation (RNS): Smart device that detects and stops seizures
- Deep brain stimulation (DBS): For generalized or multifocal epilepsy
Our Expertise
Dr. Marcus Stephens provides expert epilepsy surgery services, bringing advanced surgical options to patients throughout Hampton, GA and Southern Georgia.
Common Symptoms
- Recurrent seizures despite medication
- Loss of consciousness or awareness
- Uncontrolled movements or convulsions
- Staring spells or absence episodes
- Confusion after seizures
- Interference with daily life and safety
Treatment Options
Temporal lobectomy
Lesionectomy
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)
Responsive neurostimulation (RNS)
Deep brain stimulation (DBS)
Dr. Marcus Stephens
Board-Certified Neurosurgeon
Providing expert epilepsy & seizure disorders treatment at Nova Brain and Spine of GA in Hampton, Georgia. Serving patients throughout Southern Georgia and the Atlanta metro area.