CE Workshop 11: The Cognitive Contraindications, Complications and Costs of Epilepsy Surgery

Abstract & learning objectives

The role of the neuropsychologist in epilepsy surgery programs has evolved considerably over the past decade. In addition to gatekeeping against catastrophic outcomes, the preoperative neuropsychological assessment is also used to predict the nature and extent of likely postoperative cognitive change and to guide the preparation of prospective candidates accordingly. This workshop will introduce the concepts of contraindication, complication and cost with respect to cognitive outcomes following traditional and newer, less invasive forms of epilepsy surgery. We will explore how neuropsychological data can be integrated with the findings from the wider presurgical evaluation to assess the cognitive risk in each of these categories, with a particular focus on functional and structural imaging techniques. Finally we will look at ways in which information about risks to cognitive function can be shared with both fellow clinicians and patients at each stage along the surgical pathway. Upon conclusion of this course, learners will be able to:

1. 1. Recognize the distinction between cognitive contraindications, complications and costs in cognitive outcomes following epilepsy surgery

2. 2. Summarize the latest developments in non invasive epilepsy surgery investigations and techniques and their implications for neuropsychological function

3. 3. Apply neuropsychological data to predict postoperative cognitive outcomes and use these predictions to prepare surgical candidates for any anticipated changes.