RIYADH: King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) Riyadh branch has successfully removed a drug-resistant epileptic focus responsible for acute seizures without traditional open-brain surgery, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Monday.
This delicate procedure, the first-of-its-kind in the Middle East was performed using thermal radiofrequency in conjunction with electroencephalography (EEG).
A consultant neurosurgeon at KFSHRC, Dr. Ibrahim Althubaiti, led this innovative and minimally invasive procedure which removes, or neutralizes, the epileptic focus that triggers recurrent seizures, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life.
These seizures often stop individuals from carrying out their everyday activities such as studying, working, and social interaction. Moreover, the recurrent nature of these seizures increases the risk of physical injuries because of sudden loss of motor control.
This ground-breaking medical intervention is an effective solution that helps alleviate patients’ suffering and improves their quality of life.
The frequent need to visit the emergency department adds to the psychological and physical burden on both patients and their families, while also enhancing the costs for the healthcare system. This procedure brings patients renewed hope that they can avoid recurrent seizures, regardless of their age.
READ ALSO: Iran Guards Head Warns Israel of ‘Bitter Consequences’ Following Strike: Media
The thermal radiofrequency technique is performed by inserting a fine needle into the brain, effectively destroying the cells responsible for seizures and thus eliminating the need for open-brain surgery. This technique not only reduces risks but also accelerates the recovery process.
It is pertinent to mention that the KFSHRC Neurosciences Center is internationally recognized for the surgical volume and complexity of its operations. It conducted the separation of the epileptogenic lobe for the youngest child in the world, just 14 days old.
