Treating Epilepsy Through Advanced Technology and Care Models at AHN

Epilepsy affects approximately 3 million adults in the U.S., many of whom experience barriers to accessing specialized neurological care.*

The Joseph and Kathleen Guyaux Comprehensive Epilepsy Center at AHN Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) — a part of AHN Neuroscience Institute — was designed to address care gaps, financial burdens, and decreased quality of life commonly associated with the disease.

Give your patients the highest level of epilepsy care

Recognized as a Level 4 Epilepsy Center by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers (NAEC), The Joseph and Kathleen Guyaux Comprehensive Epilepsy Center at AGH offers centralized care for patients. Fellowship-trained neurologists and neurosurgeons deliver the highest level of medical and surgical evaluation, treatment, and support for patients with epilepsy.

“Neurological disorders are often complex and require extensive testing and monitoring,” said Timothy Quezada, DO, AHN neurologist. “Through our singular clinical focus on epilepsy and seizures at the center, we have refined our care approach and technology for this population, leading to more effective treatment plans, and ultimately, better patient outcomes.”

A new approach to monitoring epilepsy

To optimize diagnostic precision and guide appropriate therapy, the center at AGH includes a state-of-the-art Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) designed to provide continuous, real-time seizure assessment for up to 14 days in a safe, patient-centered environment.

In the EMU, patients receive care from a multidisciplinary team of neurologists, neuropsychologists, neurosurgeons, nurse navigators, EEG technologists, and physician assistants to ensure patient safety and comfort. During their stay, patients:

• Wear continuous scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) electrodes for 24-hour monitoring with simultaneous video and audio recording.
• Are advised to maintain bed rest for most of their stay to reduce safety risks during seizures.
• Use a bedside alert device to notify clinicians when a seizure is imminent, enabling real-time observation.
• Undergo supervised medication tapering to enhance the effectiveness of continuous seizure assessment.

“Providing personalized care for our patients is always a priority,” said Dr. Quezada. “The EMU enables us to tailor care plans through precise identification of where and how their seizures begin, which is a critical component of determining the most effective treatment.”

Holistic epilepsy treatment and support

Following observation in the EMU, AHN neurologists work collaboratively to evaluate each patient’s medical history and clinical profile to determine a treatment plan that may consist of adjusted pharmacologic or surgical interventions. Through the AHN Neuroscience Institute’s participation in pioneering clinical trials, patients may also gain access to investigational therapies before they are widely accessible.

The center’s fellowship-trained surgeons specialize in advanced and minimally invasive procedures for patients who have not responded to pharmacologic intervention. These include:

• Laser ablation to target epileptogenic regions located deep within the brain.
• Neuromodulation including deep brain stimulation (DBS), responsive neurostimulation (RNS), and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) to modulate abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
• Resective surgery to excise the specific brain region responsible for seizure activity.

To address the psychosocial comorbidities associated with epilepsy, patients referred to the center also have access to behavioral health services including education, support groups, and resources through our partnership with the Epilepsy Foundation of western Pennsylvania.

How to refer

If recurring seizures are impacting your patient’s quality of life, refer them to The Joseph and Kathleen Guyaux Comprehensive Epilepsy Center at AGH for state-of-the-art monitoring and advanced treatment options. Call 412-359-8850.