Subtotal Hemispherectomy in Treatment of Epilepsy

Abstract

22 cases submitted to sub-total hemispherectomy are discussed. In selected group of infantile hemiplegia where epilepsy and behavior disturbances are present, and investigations prove that the other hemisphere is normal, this operation is of great benefit. Nevertheless long follow-up of these cases is necessary pefor"O a final judgement can be passed, Age should-be no barrier to selection, as those of 18 - 25 have benefited as much as young chlidren. Post-operatively there has been no diminution of movements of the ~ffected side. This has been explained on the basis of recent experiments and observation on the motor function of cerebral cortex,