PO173 Reorganisation of language following temporal lobe epilepsy surgery

Abstract

Background Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is the most common cause of refractory focal epilepsy and anterior temporal lobe resection (ATLR) offers seizure freedom for up to 80%. ATLR however, is associated with a risk of memory and language decline, particularly naming. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) can be used to examine the functional anatomy of language and memory, and to predict the risks of cognitive decline following surgery. Some reorganisation of language networks has been demonstrated in individuals with TLE. However, most studies use language tasks that predominantly activate the frontal lobe. Aims An auditory and visual naming language fMRI paradigm has been developed that activates temporal lobe language areas. The current need is to employ this paradigm prospectively to assess the reorganisation of language networks in individual patients. Methods Language ability will be assessed in individuals with TLE prior to left and right ATLR, using McKenna Graded Naming Test. Language fMRI paradigms will be carried out on a 3 T GE MRI scanner. The reorganisation of language networks before and after ATLR will be assessed to determine the extent to which language reorganisation occurs and whether it is effective.