NHS Set to Offer ‘Life-Changing’ New Laser Therapy to Epilepsy Patients in the UK

The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK has recently announced that it will be offering a new form of laser surgery for epilepsy patients. The procedure, called epilepsy laser ablation, uses laser technology to destroy abnormal brain tissue that causes seizures. This is a newer, more advanced version of a traditional surgical procedure called lobectomy, which involves removing a portion of the brain.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the brain and causes seizures. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is one of the most common neurological disorders, affecting around 50 million people worldwide. In the UK alone, it is estimated that there are around 600,000 people living with epilepsy. While medication and other treatments can be effective in controlling seizures, some people continue to experience seizures despite these treatments. For these people, surgery may be considered as a treatment option.

The new laser surgery is being offered to people who have seizures that originate from a specific area of the brain, known as the epileptogenic zone. This is the area of the brain where seizures start and it can often be identified through imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes several hours. A small hole is made in the skull and a laser probe is inserted into the brain. The laser energy is then directed at the epileptogenic zone to destroy the abnormal brain tissue.

According to Professor John Duncan, a consultant neurosurgeon at University College London Hospitals, who is involved in the development of the new treatment, the procedure has a high success rate, with most patients experiencing a significant reduction in seizures or even complete seizure freedom after the surgery. He said, “This is a game changer for the management of epilepsy. We expect it to become the standard of care for suitable patients.”

The procedure has been trialled at a number of hospitals across the UK, and the results have been promising. The NHS is now planning to roll out the treatment across the country in the coming months. The procedure is expected to be offered to around 2,500 patients per year.

The new laser surgery is considered to be a safe and effective treatment option for epilepsy patients who have not responded to other treatments. It has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for people living with epilepsy, and it is a promising development in the management of this condition. However, it’s important to note that this type of procedure should only be considered after other treatments have failed and should be done under the guidance of a specialist.