Providing a responsive, multi-disciplinary approach for the diagnosis and treatment of individuals with epilepsy.

A PARTNERSHIP WITH PHYSICIANS FOR HEALING

The Comprehensive Epilepsy Services, is the first facility of its kind in South Central Texas, and was established to serve as a specialized resource for the assessment, evaluation, and treatment of epilepsy. Through the collaborative efforts of our multi-disciplinary team of specialists, and utilizing the latest diagnostic techniques and technology, we provide comprehensive treatment in an environment responsive to the specific needs of each patient. Every effort is made to assure that your patients continue receiving the quality care you’ve provided as their personal physician.

"We are committed to improving the day-to-day functional capabilities of children and adults with seizure disorders or epilepsy. Working in conjunction with the referring physician, we focus our attention on treatment interventions which may help patients lead more satisfying lives."

J. Scott Luther, M.D.
Medical Director

COMPREHENSIVE TREATMENT

The process for diagnosing and treating seizure disorders has been established for decades, however, treatment requirements may vary with each patient. Following an extensive intake interview/examination, and consultation with the patient’s family and referring physician, the Comprehensive Epilepsy Services’s team of medical specialists formulates a thorough treatment plan. Recommendations may include some or all of the following:

• Comprehensive Neurological Diagnostic Evaluations
• Anti Epileptic Medication
• Evaluation for Possible Surgical Treatment
• Neuropsychological Assessment

NEUROLOGICAL DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION

Extensive medical and neurological diagnostic evaluations, including an initial historical review with both family and patient, are conducted through the Comprehensive Epilepsy Services. Evaluations are used to achieve greater accuracy in determining the type, pattern, and location of recurring seizures. Our full range of sophisticated diagnostic services, which are available on an outpatient or inpatient basis, include:

• Digital EEG Studies (Ambulatory, Outpatient)
• Subdural and Epidural Electrode Implantation
• Neuroimaging Tests (MRI, PET, and CT Scans)
• Language Lateralization
• Mobile, Video Diagnostic Systems timelocked to an EEG for prolonged, continuous inpatient monitoring/
• Neuropsychological Assessments with Memory Testing

ANTI EPILEPTIC MEDICATION

For many people with seizure disorders, medication is a viable and effective treatment for controlling intractable seizures. After evaluation diagnostic test results and consulting with the referring physician, our team of specialists may recommend adjustments or changes to the patient’s current anti epileptic medication.

SURGICAL TREATMENT

Surgical intervention for epilepsy is considered when alternative approaches have failed to significantly reduce the frequency or severity of a patient’s intractable seizures. The specific surgical procedure is determined by extensive evaluations and intensive EEG monitoring which may include intracerebral depth electrode and subdural grid placements.

Surgery has proven efficacy for the treatment of seizure disorders. Our staff or neurosurgeons has extensive experience in performing traditional surgical procedures such as: Lobectomy, Hemispherectomy, and Callosotomy.

After comprehensive testing and consultation with the referring physician, our epileptologist will present the findings and explain the surgical option(s) recommended by our medical team of neurological and surgical specialists.

NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENTS

Neuropsychological testing is an important aspect of our diagnostic evaluation for patients, particularly those considering surgery. A team comprised of a neurologist, neurosurgeon, and a neuropsychologist participate in the evaluation of each patient. Assessments are used to address issues associated with intractable seizures including the physical and emotional changes which occur prior to and following surgery. This testing also serves to establish a baseline and address cognitive complaints common in patients with seizure disorders; for example, memory and speech functions.

PATIENT REFERRAL

Physicians may schedule intake evaluations for their patients by calling the Comprehensive Epilepsy Services at (210) 615-8070. We recommend forwarding pertinent records for review at least one week prior to the patient’s initial evaluation.

THE COMPREHENSIVE EPILEPSY SERVICES AT METHODIST HOSPITAL

The Comprehensive Epilepsy Services is located on the 4th floor of the South Tower of Methodist Hospital.

Additional diagnostic tests may be performed in the Texas Neurosciences Institute Building, located on the corner of Ewing Halsell and Medical Drive.

Visitors can access the Texas Neurosciences Institute by a walkway and sky bridge that connect to Methodist Hospital.

Visitor parking is also available adjacent to the Texas Neurosciences Institute Building.

Physicians practicing at Methodist Hospital and the Comprehensive Epilepsy Services are independent doctors and are not employees or agents of the Methodist Healthcare System.

Comprehensive Epilepsy Services - Patient Information