Neuroplasticity in play: Outcomes after Hemispherectomy in Rasmussen Encephalitis

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Review Article

Author Details : Isaiah Baiyekusi, Durga Prasad S.

Volume : 2, Issue : 3, Year : 2016

Article Page : 56-59

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Abstract

Introduction: A key property of the brain is its capacity to change after injury to enable at least some behavioral compensation. There are spontaneous reparative changes following injury, some of these changes are sufficient to support significant functional recovery.
Rasmussen Encephalitis: Rasmussen Encephalitis is a rare but severe immune-mediated brain disorder leading to unilateral hemispheric atrophy, associated progressive neurological dysfunction and intractable seizures. Hemispherectomy in one of its modern variants offers a very high chance of seizure freedom and it is highly probable that the unaffected hemisphere compensates and takes over the functions of the removed hemisphere.
Outcomes after Hemispherectomy: We review the some cases of positive outcomes after removal of a hemisphere in patients suffering from Rasmussen encephalitis.
Discussion: Neuroplasticity is the key for a functional motor shift to the normal hemisphere to happen. Removal of a hemisphere dramatically illustrates the resilience of the brain to extensive damage.
Conclusion: Research on the basic principles of brain plasticity is leading to new approaches to treating the injured brain. The power of neuroplasticity that is play in RE can be harnessed for intervention and rehabilitation in the field of neurology.

Keywords: Epilepsia partialis continua, Hemispherectomy, Hemispherotomy, Neuroplasticity, Rasmussen Encephalitis

How to cite : Baiyekusi I, Durga Prasad S., Neuroplasticity in play: Outcomes after Hemispherectomy in Rasmussen Encephalitis. IP Indian J Neurosci 2016;2(3):56-59

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