Saudi surgeon removes drug-resistant epileptic focus without surgery

King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center (KFSHRC) has achieved a medical milestone in the Middle East. The hospital's Neurosciences Center successfully removed a drug-resistant epileptic focus responsible for severe seizures in the patient using a minimally invasive thermal radiofrequency ablation technique with electroencephalography (EEG)—eliminating the need for traditional open-brain surgery.

Led by Dr. Ibrahim Althubaiti, a consultant neurosurgeon at KFSHRC, this innovative procedure targets the area of the brain causing seizures, significantly improving patients' quality of life. Recurrent seizures can severely impact daily activities like work, school, and social interaction. Additionally, they increase the risk of physical injuries due to sudden loss of motor control.

The KFSHRC procedure alleviates these burdens. Frequent emergency department visits associated with seizures are not only stressful for patients and families but also increase health care costs. This novel approach offers renewed hope for overcoming seizures, regardless of age.

The thermal radiofrequency technique uses a fine needle inserted into the brain to destroy seizure-causing cells. This eliminates the need for open-brain surgery, reducing risks and accelerating the recovery process.

Provided by King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre