New network and synchronization approaches in focal epilepsy research and treatment

Abstract

Traditional approaches to focal epileptic surgery rely in the identification and resection of the epileptic zone. However, a significant minority of epileptic patients continue to experience seizures after surgery, a fact that shows how difficult it is to define this concept. In this work we will review some of the recent advances in the use of complex network theory and synchronization analysis in the study of neurophysiological epileptic records which shed new light on fragmented understanding of the epilepsy dynamic we have today. More important would be the potential treatments which could be implemented from the new information and change of perspective gathered by using this methodology, particularly the substitution of the traditional resective surgery in temporal lobe epilepsy patients.