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Brain Surgery to Reduce Seizures in Children with Sturge-Weber Syndrome

Published October 2016

Download the full evidence summary PDF: Brain Surgery in Sturge-Weber Syndrome

What Were We Asked?

A parent of a child with Sturge-Weber Syndrome and drug-resistant epilepsy asked us: ‘Which of the several different types of brain surgery is most effective in reducing seizures in children with Sturge-Weber Syndrome?’

Key Findings

  • Sturge-Weber Syndrome is a rare condition that varies in severity from person to person.
  • A range of surgical procedures can be used to reduce seizures, but this makes it difficult to compare approaches.
  • Current evidence suggests that disconnective brain surgery such as hemispherectomy and posterior quadrantectomy are likely to be effective to reduce seizures.
  • Future research requires more comprehensive follow-up and standardised ways to assess outcomes.

Note: the views expressed here are those of the Peninsula Cerebra Research Unit (PenCRU) at the University of Exeter Medical School and do not represent the views of the Cerebra charity, or any other parties mentioned. We strongly recommend seeking medical advice before undertaking any treatments/therapies not prescribed within the NHS.