Treatment Options
The Comprehensive Epilepsy Program provides intervention and treatment options to stabilize patients and minimize the risk of permanent disability, while enhancing their quality of life. The center provides state-of-the-art inpatient and outpatient services for the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of patients with epilepsy. Our comprehensive approach features:
Outpatient Care
The Comprehensive Epilepsy Program has daily epilepsy clinics at the Shands Jacksonville Neuroscience Institute, the UF Neuroscience Institute at Emerson and the UF St. Marys Multispecialty Center in St. Marys, Ga. Staffed by fellowship-trained epileptologists, these clinics allow patients to receive individual care tailored to their specific conditions. Inpatient Consultation
Our staff epileptologists are available for inpatient consultation at Shands Jacksonville, St. Vincent's Medical Center, Baptist Medical Center, Memorial Medical Center, Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital and Camden Medical Center, Ga. Clinical Drug Trials
Through clinical drug trials, patients who meet the appropriate criteria are able to receive the latest in epilepsy medication research. Neuroimaging
Using the latest techniques in magnetic nuclear imaging (MRI), highly skilled neuroradiologists are able to identify minute abnormalities in MRI images that allow physicians to identify the brain area of seizure activity.
[More about neuroimaging »] PET Scan
This technique measures regional brain metabolism and is helpful in identifying the area of seizure activity. Shands Jacksonville is one of few local hospitals with this technology, which is performed by highly trained nuclear medicine physicians.
[More about PET scans »] Single Photon Emission Coherence Tomography (SPECT) Scan
Using gamma emitting radioisotopes, SPECT scanning measures blood flow to the brain and is helpful in identifying the area of seizure onset in epileptic patients. Epilepsy Surgery
This technique is reserved for those patients with difficult-to-control seizures despite medications. Patients who undergo surgery have a very good chance of successfully controlling seizures. The ability to perform this procedure requires a team of highly skilled professionals. Shands Jacksonville is proud to be able to offer this sophisticated service. Vagus Nerve Stimulation
This is another treatment option for patients with difficult-to-control seizures. This involves implanting a "brain pacemaker" at the side of the neck and may be a useful treatment option in a select group of medically refractory patients. Rehabilitation and Life Management Skills Vocational Therapies Patients are assessed by the epilepsy program coordinator from a psychological and social standpoint for rehabilitation needs, such as vocational therapy. Patients are trained or rehabilitated for work opportunities based on their functional ability. Education and Support Groups
A support group and education series on epilepsy is held each month at Shands Jacksonville. Speakers include physicians, nurses, therapists and other health professionals. The support group for patients and caregivers is open to the public. Periodic courses and symposiums on epilepsy are offered to the public and medical community. The program offers a resource library with brochures, books and videos, and is open to patients and families during regular business hours.
[Available support groups »]
For more information, please contact the Neuroscience Institute at (904) 244-3961
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