Analysis of Predictive Factors in Surgical Treatment of Intractable Epilepsy Caused by Focal Cortical Dysplasia in Children

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to analyze key factors affecting the surgical outcome of children with intractable epilepsy caused by focal cortical dysplasia, providing more effective clinical guidance. Methods: We conducted a study from March 2019 to February 2021, selecting 80 children with intractable epilepsy caused by focal cortical dysplasia who underwent surgical treatment. Comprehensive inclusion criteria were met. We collected general information and treatment outcomes before and after surgery, with a two-year postoperative follow-up. Patients were categorized into good and poor outcome groups based on outcomes. Various factors including pathological types, age of onset, seizure frequency, and extent of resection were selected as variables. Logistic regression analysis investigated predictive factors. Results: Engel class I included 53 cases, class II had 16 cases, class III had 9 cases, and class IV had 2 cases. Thus, 53 cases were in the good outcome group, and 27 in the poor outcome group. General data showed no significant differences between the groups (P > 0.05). Single-factor analysis revealed statistically significant risk factors: FCD classification, MRI results, age of onset, seizure frequency, and extent of resection (P < 0.05). Logistic multifactor analysis indicated seizure frequency. acute postoperative seizures (APSO) and extent of resection as independent influencing factors (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Seizure frequency, extent of resection, and APSO are key independent factors for surgical outcome in children with intractable epilepsy caused by focal cortical dysplasia. Clinicians should consider these factors when planning treatment to improve success rates and outcome, enhancing quality of life for affected children.