– Patient was suffering for over 12 years from drug-resistant epilepsy-
Bengaluru, 26th May 2025: Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road achieved ground-breaking success by performing Karnataka’s first targeted Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery to treat drug-resistant epilepsy. The procedure was led by Dr Raghuram G, Additional Director of Neurosurgery and Dr Guruprasad Hosurkar – Additional Director of Neurology. The patient, a 21-year-old male from Yemen, had been battling uncontrollable seizures for over 12 years. The patient was discharged within four days of the procedure and has reported remarkable improvement, with no seizures post-surgery.
Patient Mr. Mohamad (name changed) had been battling epilepsy that disrupted nearly every aspect of his daily routine. A bright pharmacy student, his ambitions were constantly derailed by multiple seizure attacks ranging from uncontrollable muscle movements and tremors to blank staring spells that occurred almost every day. Despite being on four strong anti-epileptic medications and visiting multiple hospitals, his condition did not improve. The seizures left him emotionally drained, socially isolated and physically weak.
Upon his arrival at Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road, the doctors meticulously evaluated his condition. While studying the specialized MRI and CT images, the doctors observed abnormal electrical activity in a rather widespread part of the brain and concluded that the patient’s seizures originated from those spots, rather than from a single focal point. In view of the severity of his condition, the doctors opted for an innovative approach – the Deep Brain Stimulation – a neurosurgical procedure used to regulate abnormal brain signals, targeting brain’s Centromedian Nucleus of thalamus on both sides.
Explaining the procedure, Dr Raghuram G – Additional Director, Neurosurgery, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road Bengaluru, said, “Deep Brain Stimulation is a precise and delicate procedure. We planned the entire procedure in minute detail using detailed brain scans and computer simulations. During the surgery, we placed thin wires (called electrodes) deep inside the brain with great accuracy. These wires were placed in an area called the Centromedian Nucleus, which helps control seizures. A guiding frame was used to make sure the placement was safe and accurate. The wires were then connected to a small battery-powered device, like a pacemaker for the brain, which was placed under the skin in the chest. This device sends gentle electrical signals to help stop the abnormal brain activity that causes seizures. The surgery went very smoothly, and the patient recovered well. He was walking the next day and has not had a seizure ever since.”
Dr Guruprasad Hosurkar – Additional Director Neurology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road Bengaluru said, “This young patient had a complex form of epilepsy that did not respond to medications, even after years of treatment. Since the seizures were coming from multiple areas of the brain, surgery to remove one part wasn’t an option. That’s why we chose Deep Brain Stimulation, targeting a specific area called the centromedian nucleus in the thalamus. This area helps control seizure activity. By sending small electrical signals to this part of the brain, we were able to significantly reduce his seizures and improve his quality of life. “
Following the successful brain surgery, the patient was discharged just four days later. He recovered quickly and began light physical therapy to help regain strength. Since the procedure, he has shown remarkable improvement; he has not had any seizures, feels more energetic, and has returned to his daily activities with confidence.
Mr. Akshay Oleti, Business Head, Fortis Hospitals Bengaluru, said, “This successful surgery reflects our ongoing commitment to bringing advanced, life-changing treatments to patients from across the globe. By offering Karnataka’s first Deep Brain Stimulation for epilepsy targeting the Centromedian Nucleus, we are proud to give hope to those who have exhausted other options. This case is a powerful example of how innovation, teamwork, and compassionate care can truly transform lives.”
