Intraoperative Seizures During Awake Craniotomy for Brain Tumor Resection

Background Intra-operative seizures (IOS) can occur during awake craniotomies (AC) for brain tumors. They can potentially result in an increased risk of morbidity; however, literature is scarce on IOS, its risk factors, and predictors. This study aims to ascertain the frequency of IOS in patients undergoing AC and determine possible IOS predictors. Methods In this retrospective study, we reviewed the records of all patients who underwent AC for tumor resection at a single university hospital between January 2016 and December 2020. IOS was defined as any seizure, including partial or generalized, experienced by any patient at any time from the beginning of the procedure till the end of surgery. Results Two hundred patients underwent AC during the study period. Seven (3.5%) patients experienced IOS. Compared to the non-seizure group, no significant correlation existed with any demographic variable. No significant difference was seen between the initial complaints presented by the two groups. In addition, the post-operative course of the seizure group did not significantly differ from the non-seizure group. Due to the low frequency of IOS in our cohort, an extensive analysis to determine predictors could not be performed. Conclusion In this study, we observed a low frequency of IOS (3.5%) during AC. The possible predictors and risk factors must be further investigated in large cohorts; to help limit the consequences of this possible intraoperative complication.