Seizure outcome in children with hemispheric tumors and associated intractable epilepsy: the role of tumor removal combined with seizure foci resection.

Children harboring hemispheric tumors associated with intractable epilepsy were retrospectively reviewed to assess seizure outcome following tumor resection and electrocorticography-guided seizure foci removal. Thirteen (93%) of our patients have remained seizure-free, off anticonvulsants or on tapering doses, following surgery with a mean follow-up of 33 months. Fifteen of 16 (93%) seizure foci examined histologically were void of tumor infiltration. A review of the literature is provided regarding the controversy of tumor removal versus additional seizure foci removal at the time of tumor removal in providing optimal seizure control.