At Ascension Saint Thomas in Nashville, Tennessee, our doctors and neurologists are experienced in diagnosing and managing epilepsy. Advanced imaging is used to diagnose seizures and epilepsy. Your neurologist works with a team of specialists from across the country to deliver advanced treatment options - bringing the best of our national network of care close to home.
When you choose Ascension Saint Thomas, you get doctors and care teams who listen to you. We start each appointment with a complete evaluation. Tell us your concerns and your history with seizures. Your doctor may recommend a series of tests to better understand your seizures, such as electroencephalogram (EEG), epilepsy monitoring units (EMU) or blood tests. Then, we create a care plan that’s right for you. Our goal is to help reduce the number of seizures you have – and in some cases, prevent them.
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Epilepsy monitoring unit for diagnosing seizures
Your neurologist may recommend a stay in our epilepsy monitoring unit if you are having new or unusual seizures, you are being evaluated for epilepsy surgery, or if you are starting or withdrawing from medication. The epilepsy monitoring units at Ascension Saint Thomas West Hospital and Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital have private, comfortable suites with their own bathroom and a sleeper sofa for someone to stay with you overnight.
While you are in the EMU, you will have electrodes attached to your head that record your electrical brain activity during your entire stay. Video and audio will also be recorded. Most people stay in the EMU for 3-5 days. You will be able to get up and move around the room, but are required to stay in the room during your entire stay so we can continuously monitor your brain activity.
How to prepare for your stay in the EMU:
- Before you come in, shampoo your hair. Do not apply any conditioner, gels, mousse or hair spray.
- Bring loose fitting clothing to wear during the stay. Tops should be button down, not pull over.
- You can bring extra clothing to change into and personal care items from home.
- Bring all medications you are currently taking.
- If you use a CPAP or BiPAP please bring your equipment from home.
- Bring books to read or things to do. If there is something that triggers an event, bring that as well.
Advanced treatment options for epilepsy
Depending on the cause of your seizures, your care plan may include medication, surgery or a combination of both. Your doctor takes the time to explain your treatment options and create a personalized care plan.
Medication: Whenever possible, neurologists recommend non-surgical treatment options first. Many people are able to manage their seizures with anti-seizure or anti-epileptic medications. There are many different options available. Your doctor works with you to find the right medication and dosage. And with regular follow-up visits, your doctor can adjust your medications and help manage side effects.
Surgery: If medications are not managing your seizures, your doctor may recommend surgery. Neurosurgeons at Ascension Saint Thomas use advanced robotic-assisted technology to target the source of your seizures. Robotic surgery is more precise than traditional surgery, and it can lead to less pain and a shorter recovery.
Your care doesn’t end after your initial treatment. We deliver long-term follow-up care to help you manage your epilepsy throughout your life.
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Get a second opinion from an epilepsy specialist
Get the confidence and peace of mind that your doctor and care plan are right for you. It's easy to get a second opinion at Ascension Saint Thomas. We can review your medical records and healthcare history to answer your questions and discuss options. Talk with one of our doctors about a personalized care plan.
When you are facing a new diagnosis or experiencing ongoing seizures, there’s a lot to think about. We can discuss both therapeutic or surgical treatment plans. Our team of highly experienced specialists can provide you with a second opinion based on experience and as part of an integrated national network of care.
Before your appointment, check with your insurance company to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request your medical records from your doctor on your behalf, so that they can be shared with your care team before your arrival.
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