Stereotactic radiofrequency thermocoagulation selectively targeting the subiculum for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy –Treatment concept and preliminary results

Objective

The recently emerging laser interstitial thermal therapy is becoming a substitute treatment for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) due to its less invasiveness, but it offers lower seizure-free rates than traditional open surgery. Another less invasive stereotactic ablation surgery, that is radiofrequency thermocoagulation, is also an alternative surgical procedure. In particular, magnetic resonance imaging-guided stereotactic radiofrequency thermocoagulation (MRgSRFTC) has shown excellent seizure outcomes. Recently, the subiculum has been reported to have a more important role in the epileptic network in MTLE with hippocampal sclerosis. The present study aimed to demonstrate the technical details and feasibility of MRgSRFTC targeting mainly the subiculum for the treatment of MTLE.

Methods

Two patients with right MTLE who underwent MRgSRFTC targeting the subiculum were evaluated. MRI-guided frame-based stereotactic surgery using a 2-mm-diameter rigid thermocoagulation probe was performed with a combination of multiple trajectories and coagulations (patient 1, four trajectories and 24 coagulations; patient 2, four trajectories and 20 coagulations) via one burr hole at the temporooccipital area.

Results

Both patients achieved good seizure outcomes (patient 1, Engel class IIA, follow-up for 24 months; patient 2, Engel class IA, follow-up for 20 months) without complications except for quadrant hemianopsia without subjective symptoms in patient 1.

Conclusions

Tailored ablation of the subiculum by MRgSRFTC with multiple trajectories and coagulations can provide effective seizure control with minimal damage to the surrounding tissues. Further evaluation with more patients is required to confirm the validity of the present surgical strategy and procedure.