Neurosurgeons identify growth of new adult brain cells, possible treatment for epilepsy

Research team from cleveland makes presentation on findings at Congress of Neurological Surgeons annual meeting

It had long been thought that once the human brain is fully matured, no new brain cells develop. Now a team of researchers and scientists has found evidence of cell generation in the brains of adults with epilepsy and say it could lead to ground-breaking treatment for the disease. William Bingaman, M.D., a neurosurgeon from the Cleveland Clinic, presented his findings at the 54th annual meeting of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons.

Researchers studied patients with medically intractable epilepsy who underwent epilepsy surgery to see if new cells were developing post-operatively. They found such cell generation and believe that may be the cause of the recurring seizures that are typical of epilepsy. Dr. Bingaman believes the discovery of this cell generation may provide a target for future treatment and prevention of epilepsy.

The Congress of Neurological Surgeons meeting, which is being held jointly this year with the Italian Society of Neurosurgeons, features dozens of seminars and courses led by world leaders in neurosurgery. It is being held at the Moscone West Convention Center through Thursday. The annual meeting provides continuing medical education for practicing neurosurgeons, neurosurgical residents in training, and post-graduate neurosurgical fellows, as well as allied health professionals, including nurses, physician assistants and clinical specialists.

This education is provided through lectures, courses demonstrating neurosurgical techniques, exhibits about the newest instruments and technology in the neurosurgical community, and examples of clinical and laboratory advances in neurological surgery.