A Comprehensive Review of Recent Trends in Surgical Approaches for Epilepsy Management

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, with a significant proportion of patients experiencing drug-resistant epilepsy, where seizures remain uncontrolled despite medical treatment. This review evaluates the latest surgical techniques for managing epilepsy, focusing on their effectiveness, safety, and the ongoing challenges that hinder their broader adoption. We explored various databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library to look for relevant literature using the following keywords: Epilepsy, Resective Surgery, Corpus Collectumy, and Antiepileptic Drugs. A total of 54 relevant articles were found and thoroughly explored. Recent advancements in surgical interventions include resective procedures such as anterior temporal lobectomy, corpus callosotomy, and hemispherectomy, which have been particularly effective in reducing seizures for specific types of epilepsy. Minimally invasive techniques, including laser interstitial thermal therapy and focused ultrasound, are increasingly being used, offering promising outcomes for certain patient groups. Additionally, neuromodulation methods such as deep brain stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, and responsive neurostimulation provide alternative treatment options, especially for patients who are not suitable candidates for resective surgery. Despite these advancements, the full potential of epilepsy surgery is often underutilized due to various challenges. Inconsistent referral practices, a lack of standardized surgical protocols, and significant socioeconomic barriers continue to limit access to these procedures. Addressing these issues through improved referral processes, better education for healthcare providers and patients, and ensuring equitable access to advanced surgical treatments is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes. Future research should focus on overcoming these barriers and assessing long-term outcomes to further enhance the care of patients with epilepsy.