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Corpus callosotomy

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Corpus callosotomy is a type of surgery that disconnects the two sides (hemispheres) of the brain. It is used most often on children with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy that causes frequent seizures and mental retardation and does not respond well to drug therapy.

Corpus callosotomy is not a cure for epilepsy, but prevents generalized seizures in most of those who have the surgery. Partial seizures do not respond as well to this type of surgery and may actually get worse after surgery.

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Last Updated: October 29, 2007
Author:
Monica Rhodes
Medical Review:
Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics

Theresa O'Young, PharmD - Clinical Pharmacist

Steven C. Schachter, MD - Neurology


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