Seizure frequency and social outcome in drug resistant epilepsy patients who do not undergo epilepsy surgery

Little is known about the long term prognosis of refractory epilepsy patients who do not undergo epilepsy surgery. We performed a telephone survey and chart review of patients who underwent presurgical evaluation in our Unit but did not have surgery, from 1998 until 2004. We contacted 84 patients; mean follow-up was 6.7 years. Four patients (4.7%) had died, presumably of SUDEP. Ten patients (13.1%) were seizure free. In most patients with seizures, frequency remained stable (24/80, 30%) or had decreased by ≥50% (26 patients, 30.9%). Most patients (69, 86.2%) believed their health was similar or better respect to the moment they underwent presurgical evaluation. Employment situation was stable in 64/80 patients (80%), but 11 had received new disability wages. Family situation was also generally unchanged (69/80 patients, 86.2%). Most patients were not taking antidepressants. Seizure free patients scored higher in satisfaction with life. This information can be used to counsel refractory patients.