Surgical Treatments We Offer

Surgical treatment of epilepsy has proven to be successful in attaining seizure freedom for many people. Our surgical outcomes demonstrate the benefits of surgery and the expertise of our neurosurgeons. A surgical procedure is analyzed to determine the risks of surgery against its outcomes. The goals of epilepsy surgery and treatment are to:

• Reduce or eliminate seizures
• Reduce or eliminate the need for medication
• Stop the progression of the disease

If your care team determines that you are a candidate for surgical intervention, our neurosurgeons are at the forefront of leading-edge techniques.

Surgical Resection

Our multidisciplinary team will determine whether or not you are a candidate for resective surgery. In this type of surgery, the neurosurgeon will remove the seizure focus that causes the seizures.

Phase II Monitoring

We utilize stereotactic electrodes and minimally invasive stereo electroencephalogram (EEG) when possible. Other techniques may include subdural grid and/or strip electrodes, or a combination of these subdural electrodes with depth electrode recordings.

Laser Ablation

Our neurosurgeons are experts in the use of laser ablation techniques for epilepsy. Laser ablation surgery is a minimally invasive technique that precisely removes the seizure focus.

Neuromodulation Devices

If you are not a surgical candidate, you may be offered neuromodulation devices. Currently, we implant the NeuroPace RNS device and the LivaNova VNS. These devices work in conjunction with medications to potentially reduce or eliminate seizure activity.

Diagnostic Tools

We give you access to the very latest in diagnostic technology to evaluate results, ensuring the right diagnosis and the right treatment plan for you.

Neurologic Consultation

The information provided to the epileptologist during an initial consultation helps the team create a personalized care plan for you.

Neuroimaging

Neuroimaging procedures, such as computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron-emission tomography (PET) scan and ictal SPECT, help us gain a better understanding of what is happening inside your body. Our center is equipped with 3T MRI scanners and provides MRI/PET fusion techniques, for the most comprehensive and current imaging options available.

Neurophysiology

Electroencephalographic (EEG) monitoring is one of the most valuable tools available to help epileptologists diagnose and treat epilepsy syndromes. We offer inpatient and outpatient EEG services, as well as video EEG, which involves recording brain activity and the physical manifestations that accompany the seizure. The information collected helps determine the most appropriate treatment by providing a more accurate diagnosis of the types of seizures experienced.

Neuropsychological Assessment

A number of specially designed tests are carried out by a neuropsychologist. The tests can reveal important information about certain functions of your brain, identify abnormal brain function and can help determine types of epilepsy, as well as the causes and sites of seizures.

Wada test and Intracranial EEG mapping

The purpose of the Wada test is to discover which side of the brain is primarily responsible for language and memory. The results of the test will help guide options for surgery. The goal of intracranial EEG mapping, commonly known as brain mapping, is to gather more precise data on areas of the brain not reachable by conventional scalp EEG.

Multidisciplinary Support Services

We offer a full range of epilepsy support services and expert specialists that will help you achieve the most optimal outcome. The following services are available on an acute or ongoing basis, as needed:   

Women’s Epilepsy Care  

Our physicians have expertise to properly guide women with epilepsy through various life stages. If you are seeking to become pregnant or are already pregnant, we have the expertise to ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and child.   

Young Adult Transition Program  

This program is designed for patients ages 18-26 years of age, who are transitioning between their pediatric epilepsy program and our adult epilepsy program. We provide a bridge between pediatric clinicians and our team to ensure a smooth transition. We provide education, guidance and periodic assessments to young adults to improve confidence and understanding for better self-management of their epilepsy.   

Neuropsychology Services  

Our neuropsychologists provide comprehensive evaluation for patients who are being considered for surgical options. We also work with you to provide cognitive behavioral therapy sessions when needed.  

Occupational Therapy/Lifestyle Redesign  

Our occupational therapists use Lifestyle Redesign to help create health-promoting habits and routines to better manage your life. We evaluate you and provide individualized treatment plans to help with medication compliance, sleep hygiene, stress management and understanding of seizure triggers.   

Diet and Nutritional Services  

Our dietitians work with youto provide education and counseling on all dietary options, assisting with the design of the healthiest eating guidelines for patients with epilepsy. 

USC Epilepsy Care Consortium

The USC Epilepsy Care Consortium represents a unique effort to understand the issues that limit access to critically needed services across our health care ecosystem and to develop creative patient-centered solutions. Our group provides specialized care and offers a comprehensive team approach to the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy. 

The Consortium was created to serve several important roles: 

• Provide equitable access to specialty care in our diverse communities 
• Maintain strong partnerships with community hospitals across Central and Southern California to provide quality care 
• Share our latest technological resources and provide multidisciplinary care for patients with intractable epilepsy living in underserved, rural areas
• Provide education and awareness on the latest advances on research and patient care practices  

For more information, visit the consortium website. 

Consortium Partners: 

• Children’s Hospital Los Angeles 
• Children’s Hospital of Orange County 
• Cottage Hospital 
• Hoag Hospital 
• Kaweah Delta 
• Keck Medical Center of USC 
• Kern Medical Center 
• Los Angeles General Medical Center
• Providence Mission Hospital 
• Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center 
• Valley Children’s Hospital