Around 30% of children who are newly diagnosed with epilepsy, go on to develop what’s called “Drug-resistant Epilepsy” or DRE. As the name implies, resistant epilepsy is a form of epilepsy that persists despite treatment with two anti-seizure drugs. This form of epilepsy is also referred to as Refractory Epilepsy.
In such cases, epilepsy surgery is indicated to remove the “focus” causing the seizures in the brain. Compared to adults, rapid and aggressive treatment is indicated in children to prevent permanent damage to the brain.
In children who cannot be treated with epilepsy surgery, other techniques like vagal nerve stimulation or ketogenic diet may be indicated.