Short Wave New Tech Targets Epilepsy With Lasers, Robots
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Jan 20, 2023 Jon Hamilton, an NPR science correspondent and expert in epilepsy treatment, shares groundbreaking advancements in treating epilepsy. He discusses how precise lasers and robotic surgeries are revolutionizing care for millions affected by epilepsy, especially those with stubborn seizures. Patients once written off are now finding hope through these technologies, which facilitate minimally invasive procedures. Jon emphasizes the importance of consulting doctors about new surgical options, highlighting impressive success rates and improved recovery times.
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Successful Laser Ablation
- A man experienced seizures for over a decade, unsuccessfully treated with medication.
- In 2016, Dr. Jerry Shee at UCSD used new laser ablation technology, rendering the patient seizure-free.
Epileptic Seizures Explained
- Epileptic seizures are like electrical storms in the brain, caused by malfunctioning brain cells.
- These out-of-control signals disrupt normal brain communication, causing various symptoms like shaking and loss of awareness.
Listening to the Brain's Music
- Doctors use advanced technology to locate the source of seizures, similar to listening to the brain's music.
- This helps in understanding the complex interplay of brain activity and treating epilepsy effectively.