What are my chances of becoming seizure-free after surgery?
The UCSD Epilepsy Team has had very good outcomes for epilepsy surgery, comparable to the best centers in the world. Of all patients with temporal lobe epilepsy surgery, 75% are seizure free after surgery, usually on medication. Another 20% are significantly better, but not seizure free. The remaining 5% received no worthwhile improvement. The results for surgery outside the temporal lobe are less satisfactory, with only 38% seizure free, 50% improved and 12% no different. Certain features may improve or reduce the chances for a particular patient. Your doctor can explain the circumstances of your case. It must be noted that the chances are never 100%, and there is no guarantee that the seizures will go into remission. • How long will I be in the hospital? How much time will I need to recuperate? Most patients leave the hospital within one week, many within 3-5 days of surgery. Most recuperate at home for several weeks, gradually easing back into their school, work or home activities o
