Surgical management of intractable seizure disorders.
The surgical treatment of intractable seizures is still regarded by some as an experimental procedure with questionable rationale. However, in centers where care is taken in the selection process and facilities are available for adequate diagnosis, the procedure has been successful in complete alleviation of seizures in some cases. The decision about surgical interventions for epilepsy is never an easy one. Potential surgical candidates are evaluated by a team of specialists and undergo numerous diagnostic tests and examinations before a decision for surgery is made. It is essential for the neuroscience nurse to have knowledge of the underlying etiology of seizures, diagnostic testing and surgical procedures in order to effectively care for the seizure patient pre- and postoperatively. With this knowledge, nursing management becomes a vital part in the total treatment of the seizure patient.
Hodges
K
K
Department of Neurologic Surgery, Rochester, Minnesota 55905.
Root
L
L
D004827:Epilepsy / Q000451:nursing / Q000601:surgery*; D004833:Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe / Q000451:nursing / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000451:nursing; D011612:Psychosurgery / Q000379:methods*; D012640:Seizures / Q000451:nursing / Q000601:surgery*; D013702:Temporal Lobe / Q000601:surgery*