In this Article

• What is an extratemporal cortical resection?
• Who is a candidate for extratemporal cortical resection?
• What happens before surgery?
• What happens during surgery?
• What happens after surgery?
• How effective is extratemporal cortical resection?
• What are the side effects?
• What are the risks?
• Extratemporal Cortical Resection Index

What Happens After Surgery?
The patient generally stays in the hospital for 2 to 4 days. Most people having extratemporal cortical resection will be able to return to their normal activities, including work or school, in 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. The hair over the incision will grow back and hide the surgical scar. Most patients will need to continue taking anti-seizure medication for two or more years after surgery. Once seizure control is established, medications may be reduced or eliminated.

How Effective Is Extratemporal Cortical Resection?
Extratemporal cortical resection is successful in eliminating or dramatically reducing seizures in 45-65% of cases. Surgery generally is more effective if only one area of the brain is involved.

What Are the Side Effects of Extratemporal Cortical Resection?
The following symptoms may occur after surgery, although they generally go away on their own:

• Scalp numbness
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Difficulty speaking, remembering things or finding words
• Feeling tired or depressed

What Are the Risks of Extratemporal Cortical Resection?
The risks associated with extratemporal cortical resection are rare and mainly depend on which area of the brain is involved. They may include:

• Risks associated with surgery, including infection, bleeding and allergic reaction to anesthesia
• Swelling of the brain
• Failure to relieve seizures
• Changes in personality or behavior
• Partial loss of vision, memory or speech
• Stroke

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Seizure (Epilepsy) - Learn about epilepsy, or seizure disorder. Causes include head injury, trauma, prenatal injury, poisoning, medications, stroke, heart attacks, alcoholism, infection, and more. Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment information is included in the information.

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