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[Problems related to neurosurgical treatment of epilepsy in children]
O Dulac1, O Delalande, J M Pinard
1Service de neuropédiatrie, université René-Descartes, Paris, France.
Insights
Pediatric epilepsy neurosurgery has advanced, but precise methods for pre-surgical evaluation and surgical indications remain challenging due to immature brain development and evolving functions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
- Epileptology
- Developmental Neuroscience
Abstract:
Neurosurgery of epilepsy in children has undergone rapid development during the past decade. This was justified by the high incidence of intractable epilepsy and its consequences on cognitive development. Any decision in the area of surgery must take in account specific etiology and the rapid maturation of the infant's brain. As in adulthood, both the epileptogenic and the functional zones must be identified, but this is a challenge when the brain is not mature and the functions not yet developed. In addition, the ability to recover must be determined. At the present time no precise methodology can be advised for presurgical work-up and surgical indications.