Modified hemispherectomy for infantile hemiparesis and epilepsy

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Pediatric Neurology
• Epileptology

Background:

• Infantile hemiparesis and medically refractory epilepsy present significant challenges.
• Hemispherectomy is a radical surgical option for severe cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and imaging outcomes of modified hemispherectomy.
• To assess long-term effects in patients with infantile hemiparesis and refractory epilepsy.

Main Methods:

• Forty-three patients with infantile hemiparesis and refractory epilepsy underwent hemispherectomy.
• Treatment effects and post-operative medical imaging were analyzed.

Main Results:

• All patients (100%) underwent successful hemispherectomy with decreased muscular tension.
• Epilepsy was controlled in 91% (Engel I) and basic control in 9% (Engel II).
• Imaging revealed intracranial space shrinkage, cerebral hemisphere shift, and eventual disappearance in 75% of cases.

Conclusions:

• Modified hemispherectomy demonstrates improved epilepsy control.
• The procedure aids in preventing superficial cerebral hemosiderosis during long-term follow-up.