[Introduction to the clinical study of postrolandic epileptic seizures]

We reviewed, in 145 epilectics studied with SEEG, 800 clinical and electrographic seizures originating from the post-rolandic areas (590 spontaneous Sz and 260 induced by stimulation). The intra-cranial electrodes were implanted using a technique described by Talairach et al. (1974). Seizure onsets were recorded in the centro-parietal region (64 patients) in the parietal and in the occipital region. Additionally in 15 patients, mixed Sz onset were recorded. One hundred and eight (108) patients underwent surgical removal of their epileptic focus. (69 on the right, 39 on left.) 65% were cured (Sz free or occas Sz, f/up 3 years). The main ictal cal features are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the role of the operculo-insular cortex in the functional organization in man, based on Sz arising from the supra-temporal (fronto-pariental) cortex. The study of the pattern of onset and spread of seizures originating in the post-rolandic areas and of their clinical correlates allow a topographic differential diagnosis.