Refractory Epilepsy Treatment in Turkey
About Refractory Epilepsy
Key Highlights
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Comprehensive evaluation to pinpoint the exact source of seizures in the brain.Personalized treatment plan beyond standard medications.Potential for significantly improved seizure control and quality of life.Access to advanced therapeutic options like neurostimulation devices.Management by a specialist neurologist with expertise in complex epilepsy cases.
Who is this surgery for?
- Seizures that continue despite trials of at least two appropriately dosed and tolerated anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs).
- Poor tolerance to AEDs due to severe side effects.
- Focal seizures (originating from one brain area) that are potentially surgically treatable.
- Significant impact of seizures on daily activities, safety, cognition, or quality of life.
- Suspicion of a structural brain lesion (e.g., tumor, cortical dysplasia) causing the epilepsy.
How to prepare
- Detailed review of all previous medical records, seizure diaries, and medication history.
- Discontinuation or adjustment of certain medications as advised by the neurologist.
- For video-EEG monitoring, admission to a specialized epilepsy monitoring unit.
- Completion of high-resolution brain MRI and possibly other scans (PET, SPECT).
- Neuropsychological testing to assess cognitive function and memory.
- Discussion of goals, expectations, and all potential treatment options with the neurologist.
Risks & possible complications
- Diagnostic procedures (like EEG) carry minimal risk (skin irritation from electrodes).
- Medication adjustments may cause temporary side effects or increased seizure frequency.
- Dietary therapies (ketogenic diet) may lead to gastrointestinal issues or nutrient deficiencies.
- Surgical or neurostimulation interventions (if pursued) carry their own specific risks, including infection, bleeding, or neurological deficits.
- Possibility that even advanced treatments may not fully control seizures.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Recovery is highly dependent on the specific treatment path chosen (medication change, diet, or surgery).
- After diagnostic evaluation, patients typically resume normal activities once medications are stabilized.
- Post-surgical or post-device implantation requires a specific recovery protocol with activity restrictions.
- Regular follow-up appointments with the neurologist are crucial to monitor seizure control and adjust therapy.
- Ongoing management of medications and potential side effects.
- Possible engagement with rehabilitation services (physical, occupational therapy) if needed.
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Typical hospital stay:
Varies (0 days for evaluation; 3-7 days for monitoring; 5-10 days for surgery)
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Expected recovery time:
Varies (2-4 weeks for medication/diet adjustment; 6-12 weeks for surgical recovery)
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering refractory epilepsy in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for refractory epilepsy in Turkey include Istinye Üniversitesi Hastanesi Liv, VM Medical Park Pendik Hastanesi, Medical Park Gaziosmanpaşa, Medical Park Bahçelievler, Liv Hospital Ankara, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform refractory epilepsy. MediFyr helps you compare neurologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for refractory epilepsy compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 551 – USD 8,809 | Varies (0 days for evaluation; 3-7 days for monitoring; 5-10 days for surgery) | ~ Varies (2-4 weeks for medication/diet adjustment; 6-12 weeks for surgical recovery) | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 4,098 – USD 65,565 | Varies (0 days for evaluation; 3-7 days for monitoring; 5-10 days for surgery) | ~ Varies (2-4 weeks for medication/diet adjustment; 6-12 weeks for surgical recovery) | Know More |
Top hospitals for Refractory Epilepsy in Turkey
These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated neurology teams and experience managing patients undergoing refractory epilepsy.
Istanbul, Turkey
150 Doctors
Saanvi Ali is a 28-year-old graphic...
Saanvi Ali is a 28-year-old graphic designer whose life was upended by focal aware seizures that began in her late teens. Initially brief episodes of déjà vu and a rising stomach sensation, they progressed to disruptive moments where she would stare blankly and fumble objects, sometimes followed by confusion. Despite trying four different anti-seizure medications in various combinations, the seizures persisted 2-3 times a week, jeopardizing her job and independence. Her neurologist, Dr. Chen, recommended an evaluation for refractory epilepsy, explaining that her seizures were not controlled by medication and that further testing could identify if she was a candidate for surgery or advanced devices like a neurostimulator. Saanvi underwent a week-long video-EEG monitoring stay in the hospital, which was emotionally draining but pinpointed the seizure focus in her left temporal lobe. Following this, she had a responsive neurostimulation (RNS) device implanted. The recovery involved initial scalp tenderness and activity restrictions, but within a year, her seizure frequency dropped by over 70%. Emotionally, Saanvi journeyed from a place of frustration and fear about her unpredictable future to one of cautious optimism and regained control. She still manages her condition, but the dramatic reduction in seizures has allowed her to return to full-time work and rebuild her confidence.