365Telugu.com online news, Hyderabad, 17th November, 2024: Epilepsy, a chronic neurological condition marked by recurrent seizures, affects over 10 million people in India, making it one of the most common neurological disorders in the country. Despite significant advancements in medical science, nearly 70% of epilepsy patients in India do not receive adequate treatment due to stigma, lack of awareness, or limited access to specialized care. This treatment gap underscores the pressing need for dedicated, multidisciplinary centers equipped to offer comprehensive epilepsy care.
Effective management of epilepsy requires a team of specialists working together to address its medical, surgical, diagnostic, and psychosocial aspects. Neurologists specialized in epilepsy ensure accurate diagnosis and medication management, while neurosurgeons offer life-changing surgical options for drug-resistant cases. Radiologists and nuclear medicine experts trained in epilepsy imaging play a crucial role in pinpointing seizure origins, and psychologists provide essential support for patients and families dealing with the condition. This collaborative approach ensures holistic, personalized care, bridging the gaps in traditional epilepsy management.
Recognizing this need, AIG Hospitals has launched a state-of-the-art Centre for Epilepsy, on the occasion of National Epilepsy Day 2024. The launch was accompanied by a special Continuing Medical Education (CME) program that brought together the nation’s leading epilepsy specialists, including Dr. Malla Bhaskara Rao from NIMHANS, Bangalore,Dr. Dinesh Nayak from Global Hospital, Chennai, Dr. Ramesh Doddamani from AIIMS, Delhi among others to deliver keynote lectures and participate in insightful panel discussions. Chief Guest for the launch event was Sri Syed Ali Murtaza Rizvi, IAS, Principal Secretary to Govt. of Telangana (Revenue Department) in presence of Mr. PVS Raju, Vice-Chairman, AIG Hospitals and Dr. GV Rao, Director, AIG Hospitals. Organized by the Institute of Neurosciences, AIG Hospitals, the event reinforced the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in addressing the unmet needs in epilepsy care.
Epilepsy in India: The Current Landscape
While epilepsy is treatable in 70-80% of cases, a significant portion of the population continues to live with uncontrolled seizures, leading to social isolation, loss of productivity, and compromised quality of life. The stigma surrounding epilepsy, particularly in rural and semi-urban India, prevents many individuals from seeking timely help.
Additionally, while medication is effective for most, an estimated 20-30% of epilepsy patients experience drug-resistant epilepsy. For these patients, advanced diagnostic tools and surgical interventions are the only options for achieving long-term relief. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness and misconceptions about epilepsy surgery leave many of these patients undiagnosed and untreated.
AIG Hospitals’ Centre for Epilepsy: A Step Towards Comprehensive Care
The Centre for Epilepsy at AIG Hospitals is a dedicated, multidisciplinary facility that brings together neurologists, neurosurgeons, radiologists, nuclear medicine experts, psychologists, and rehabilitation specialists to provide holistic care for epilepsy patients. The center is equipped with advanced diagnostic technologies, including 3T MRI, Functional MRI, Video EEG facility and PET. Surgical equipment include Neuronavigation, intraoperative ECOG recording, intraoperative neuromonitoring, intraoperative USG, Radiofrequency ablator, Robotic arm for depth electrode placements and stereotactic ablations. Speaking at the event, Dr. D Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman, AIG Hospitals, said,
“Our vision for the Centre for Epilepsy is to make world-class epilepsy treatment accessible and affordable for all. Epilepsy is not just a medical condition—it is a social challenge. Through this dedicated center, we aim to bridge the treatment gap, reduce stigma, and offer solutions that enable patients to live seizure-free lives.”
Addressing Gaps in Epilepsy Management
Highlighting the center’s unique approach, Dr. SA Jabeen, Director & HOD, Neurology, AIG Hospitals, stated,
“The Centre for Epilepsy at AIG Hospitals is designed to address the gaps in epilepsy care. We offer a seamless pathway for patients, from diagnosis and medical management to surgical intervention and rehabilitation. Our multidisciplinary team ensures that every patient receives comprehensive and personalized care under one roof.”
The center also focuses on public education and community outreach programs to dispel myths about epilepsy and encourage timely medical intervention.
Epilepsy Surgery: A Life-Changing Opportunity
For patients with drug-resistant epilepsy, surgery offers a proven, long-term solution. However, misconceptions about the risks associated with surgery often deter patients from exploring this option. Emphasizing the importance of timely intervention, Dr. Subodh Raju, Director & HOD, Neurosurgery, AIG Hospitals, remarked,
“Surgery for epilepsy is not a last resort; it is a transformative solution that can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life. Our goal is to eliminate the stigma around epilepsy surgery and ensure that patients and their families understand the benefits of timely surgical intervention.”
A Commitment to Transforming Lives
The success of epilepsy treatment lies in a collaborative approach. At AIG Hospitals, specialized radiologists trained in epilepsy imaging, neurophysicians experienced in managing complex cases, and expert neurosurgeons come together to offer a comprehensive treatment framework. This approach not only improves outcomes but also empowers patients and their families with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
The launch of the Centre for Epilepsy is a testament to AIG Hospitals’ commitment to advancing neurological care in India. By combining cutting-edge technology with the expertise of India’s leading specialists, AIG Hospitals aims to transform the lives of epilepsy patients and their families.