Epilepsy
The aim of inpatient therapy is to improve seizure control and quality of life. Depending on the individual case, the following measures are used:
- Drug treatment:
Initially, treatment is carried out with so-called seizure-suppressive medication (ASMs), formerly also known as "antiepileptic drugs". These stabilise the electrical activity in the brain. The range of medications has expanded enormously over the last 20 years. They are selected individually according to the type of epilepsy, frequency of seizures, age, gender and concomitant illnesses.
Our clinic also participates in clinical trials with drugs that are not yet available on the market and are used under close supervision.
Monotherapy is usually started; if it is not effective enough, combination therapy may be necessary. Around a third of those affected do not respond adequately to medication - in such cases we speak of Pharmacoresistance.
- Epilepsy surgery treatment (in co-operation with various university hospitals such as Freiburg, Munich, Ulm):
In the case of pharmacoresistant epilepsy, the possibility of surgical treatment should be investigated at an early stage. A so-called "pre-surgical diagnosis" is used to clarify whether an epileptic focus in the brain can be removed by surgery - without permanent neurological deficits. We work closely with leading epilepsy centres and university hospitals that offer modern surgical procedures.
- Neuromodulation procedures (in co-operation with the University Hospitals of Freiburg, Munich and Ulm):
Electrical impulses are used to reduce the hyperexcitability of the brain. The effect is delayed, but increases over time.
The following procedures are available:
- Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS): Authorised in the EU since 1995. A pulse generator stimulates the left vagus nerve in the neck, which reduces the frequency of seizures. Positive side effect: improvement in mood.
- Deep brain stimulation (DBS): approved for the treatment of focal epilepsies since 2014. The stimulation takes place directly in the brain.
- Epicranial stimulation (EASEE): Relatively new method with implanted electrode under the scalp. The prerequisite is a seizure focus close to the surface - not suitable for all forms of epilepsy.
- Supplementary therapy and counselling services:
- Psychotherapy: Coping with psychological side effects
- Physiotherapy: In the event of physical limitations as a result of the seizures
- Social counselling: Questions about driving licence, employment law, severe disability, pension etc.
- Patient training (e.g. MOSES programme): Modular training programme for epilepsy MOSES training programme | for people with epilepsy
- Specialised care for people with intellectual disabilities:
Our clinic has its own ward with structural adaptations (e.g. Snoezelen room) and specially trained staff for the care of people with epilepsy and cognitive impairments.
If you have any questions or require personalised advice, please do not hesitate to contact us at any time.
