First-Ever Epileptic Seizure Diagnostic Procedure in UAE by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

Photo: Abu Dhabi Media Office

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Achieves UAE’s First SEEG Procedure

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of the M42 group, has successfully completed the UAE’s first stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) procedure. This advanced, minimally invasive technique is designed to precisely locate the origins of challenging focal epileptic seizures within the brain.

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The groundbreaking procedure involved implanting thin electrodes in the brain to access areas that traditional methods cannot reach. The surgery was performed on a UAE National patient who had been struggling with epilepsy for over a decade. Following the procedure, the patient was closely monitored for ten days at the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit, with the electrodes in place to capture and localize the seizures.

During this monitoring period, the patient’s seizures were recorded and pinpointed to a specific brain region known as the epileptogenic zone. Additionally, an electric current was applied through the electrodes to induce the patient’s seizures, aiding in further pinpointing the seizure's origin.

Dr. Florian Roser, Institute Chair of the Neurological Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, explained, “When seizures cannot be localized using standard scalp EEG or other non-invasive imaging methods like MRI, PET-CT, or ictal SPECT scans, SEEG becomes essential. This technique allows for monitoring from within the brain, overcoming the limitations of scalp monitoring. The main challenge is placing the electrodes safely without harming critical brain structures. Our advanced software, unique in the UAE, combines various imaging studies to ensure precise electrode placement.”

Dr. Eugene Achi, Staff Physician at the Neurological Institute, added, “Research shows that early surgical intervention often leads to improved outcomes, including better memory and quality of life, with success rates reaching up to 70%, depending on the case.”

Dr. Achi highlighted the collaborative effort involved in the procedure, noting the contributions of epileptologists, neurosurgeons, neuropsychologists, neuroradiologists, and nuclear medicine specialists. He stated, “This success reflects the dedication of our multidisciplinary team and the support from our institution, health authorities, and the patient’s family. We are proud of this achievement and appreciative of the trust placed in us.”

The completion of this first SEEG procedure marks a significant advancement for the UAE’s medical field. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Neurological Institute is recognized as the country’s first Level 4 Epilepsy Centre, offering comprehensive neurodiagnostic monitoring and extensive treatment options for epilepsy, including advanced surgical procedures.