Temporal lobectomy for epilepsy - complicationsin 200 patients

At the Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia, 200 consecutive temporal lobectomies were performed for refractorycomplex partial seizures between 1969 and 1991 as part of its Comprehensive Epilepsy Program. The complications of this retrospective series are reported. There were no 30-day postoperative deaths but there were 6 late deaths. Complications are divided into 'major' if permanent and/or severe or 'minor' if temporary or not severe. Complications included hemiparesis (2% major, 1% minor), visual field defect (3% major, 18. 5% minor), dysphasia (96 dominant resections - 0% major, 5. 5% minor), memory impairment (1 % major, 9. 5% minor); intracranial infection (2% major, 0% minor), and miscellaneous (11 % minor). The mechanisms of the complications are discussed. Temporal lobectomy for the treatment of epilepsy can be performed with a low morbidity.