Learn about Callosotomy Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Callosotomy and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Callosotomy

A callosotomy is a specialized neurosurgical procedure, typically performed by a neurologist in collaboration with a neurosurgeon, to treat severe, drug-resistant epilepsy. The surgery involves disconnecting or partially severing the corpus callosum, the thick band of nerve fibers that connects the brain's two hemispheres. This disruption prevents seizure activity from spreading from one side of the brain to the other, effectively containing the electrical storm. While it does not cure epilepsy, it significantly reduces the frequency and severity of generalized seizures, particularly drop attacks (atonic seizures), which can cause dangerous falls. The procedure is considered a last-resort treatment when multiple anti-seizure medications have failed, and it can dramatically improve a patient's quality of life and safety.

Key Highlights

    Significantly reduces the frequency and severity of generalized seizures, especially drop attacks.Can dramatically improve patient safety by preventing dangerous falls associated with seizures.Offers a treatment option for epilepsy when multiple medications have proven ineffective.May enhance overall quality of life and independence for suitable candidates.Often performed as a partial (anterior) callosotomy, preserving more brain connectivity than a complete section.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Severe, drug-resistant epilepsy (intractable epilepsy) not controlled by multiple anti-seizure medications.
  • Primary indication is for debilitating generalized seizures, particularly atonic seizures (drop attacks) or tonic-clonic seizures.
  • Patients who are not candidates for focal resection surgery because seizures originate from multiple or inaccessible brain areas.
  • To prevent secondary generalization, where a focal seizure spreads to involve the entire brain.
  • Considered for patients whose seizures cause frequent, serious injuries.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive neurological evaluation, including long-term video EEG monitoring to characterize seizure type and origin.
  • Advanced brain imaging (MRI, PET, or SPECT) to rule out a resectable focal lesion.
  • Neuropsychological testing to establish a cognitive and functional baseline.
  • Detailed discussion with the neurology and neurosurgery team about goals, risks, and expected outcomes.
  • Pre-operative tests: blood work, ECG, and chest X-ray to ensure fitness for major surgery.
  • Adjustment or tapering of anti-epileptic medications as directed by the neurologist.
  • Fasting for 8-12 hours before the surgery.

Risks & possible complications

  • Standard risks of major brain surgery: infection, bleeding (hemorrhage), blood clots, and adverse reaction to anesthesia.
  • Disconnection syndrome: temporary or permanent difficulties with coordination between brain hemispheres (e.g., alien hand syndrome).
  • Speech and language problems, especially if the dominant hemisphere is affected.
  • Memory deficits or changes in cognitive function.
  • Headaches, nausea, and swelling at the surgical site.
  • Potential for incomplete seizure control or no significant improvement.
  • Risk of developing new types of focal seizures post-operatively.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial recovery in an intensive care unit (ICU) for 1-2 days for close neurological monitoring.
  • Hospital stay for monitoring of surgical recovery and seizure activity.
  • Management of post-operative pain, swelling, and nausea with medication.
  • Gradual resumption of activities; strenuous activity and heavy lifting are restricted for several weeks.
  • Continued use of anti-seizure medications, which may be adjusted over time based on seizure control.
  • Involvement in physical, occupational, or speech therapy if needed to address any neurological changes.
  • Regular follow-up appointments with the neurologist to assess seizure frequency, medication management, and overall recovery.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 5-10 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 6-12 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering callosotomy in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for callosotomy compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 3,807 – USD 8,701 5-10 days ~ 6-12 weeks Know More
Turkey USD 28,184 – USD 64,420 5-10 days ~ 6-12 weeks Know More

Top hospitals for Callosotomy in Turkey

These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated neurology teams and experience managing patients undergoing callosotomy.

Liv Hospital Ankara

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon140 Doctors

Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon38 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

Had my gallbladder out last week....

Had my gallbladder out last week. The surgery itself was fine, but the first two days after were rough. Dr. Madhumitha was really on top of my pain meds, adjusting them a few times until it was manageable. She checked on me every morning and evening at MGM, which helped a lot. I'm home now and the recovery is going okay, just taking it slow.