Stereotactic Laser Ablation for Hypothalamic Hamartoma

Abstract

Stereotactic laser ablation (SLA) is a minimally invasive approach to the treatment of medication-resistant epilepsy that accomplishes ablation of the seizure focus with real-time magnetic resonance thermal mapping. Rates of seizure freedom in early series suggest that SLA approaches and perhaps surpasses the effectiveness of open resection. SLA minimizes the neurocognitive and endocrine adverse effects of open surgery. Secondary benefits of SLA include decreased length of stay, elimination of intensive care unit stay, reduced procedure-related discomfort, and improved access to surgical treatment for patients less likely to consider an open resective procedure.

Keywords: Ablation; Gelastic seizures; Hypothalamic hamartoma; Laser; Refractory epilepsy; Technical approach.