hemispherectomy in children

Hemispherectomy is a surgical procedure where one cerebral hemisphere (half of the brain) is removed or disconnected to treat severe epilepsy that originates within one side of the brain. In children, this surgery can significantly reduce or eliminate seizures, especially when they are localized to one hemisphere. Despite removing or disconnecting half of the brain, many children can regain or develop functional skills over time, as the brain’s plasticity allows other areas to adapt. The procedure is carefully considered when epilepsy is resistant to medication and severely impacts the child's quality of life.