Hemispherectomy
Hemispherectomy is a rare but highly specialized surgical procedure used primarily for children or adults with severe epilepsy confined to one half of the brain.
The surgery involves either removing or disconnecting the diseased hemisphere to prevent seizure spread.
At CureU Healthcare, our neurosurgical and neurology teams perform this procedure using advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques to improve outcomes and preserve function.
Overview And Clinical Background
When One Brain Half Needs Rest
Hemispherectomy is indicated for patients with severe epilepsy that does not respond to medications, often caused by structural brain damage or developmental disorders.
It aims to eliminate seizures originating from one hemisphere while allowing the other half to adapt and take over critical functions over time.
- Indication: Medically intractable epilepsy affecting one hemisphere, often due to stroke or cortical malformation.
- Performed mostly in pediatric patients whose brains can rewire after surgery.
- Goal: Achieve seizure freedom and improve neurological stability.
Symptoms, Signs And Presentation
Patients often present with frequent, disabling seizures and developmental delays.
Weakness or stiffness on one side may also be noted before surgery.
- Common symptom: Recurrent focal seizures not controlled by medication.
- Developmental regression or language delay due to uncontrolled brain activity.
- Red flag: Status epilepticus or prolonged seizures requiring emergency care.
Diagnosis Methods And Investigations
Neuroimaging And Electrophysiological Mapping
Precise diagnosis ensures that seizures arise from one hemisphere only.
Extensive testing helps predict post-surgical recovery.
- Imaging: MRI and PET scans localize lesions and assess the healthy hemisphere.
- Lab tests: Baseline blood and metabolic tests to ensure safety before anesthesia.
- EEG monitoring maps electrical seizure activity for surgical planning.
Treatment Options And Surgical Techniques
Surgical techniques include anatomic and functional hemispherectomy.
The choice depends on the condition and age of the patient.
- Conservative: Anti-seizure medications and rehabilitation before surgery is considered.
- Minimally invasive options: Functional hemispherectomy disconnects the diseased hemisphere without full removal.
- Anatomic hemispherectomy involves partial or total removal of the affected hemisphere when necessary.
Recovery, Risks And Prognosis
Recovery may take months but children typically regain mobility and language faster due to brain plasticity.
Risks include weakness or visual field loss, but seizure control is often life-changing.
Why Choose Us
CureU Healthcare brings together expert neurologists, pediatric neurosurgeons, and rehabilitation specialists to ensure a safe and successful hemispherectomy.
Our precision imaging and child-focused recovery programs maximize outcomes and comfort for every patient.
Conclusion
Hemispherectomy offers hope for patients with uncontrollable seizures.
With expert hands and compassionate care, CureU Healthcare helps families find freedom from epilepsy.
