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Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders Service

At the Mass General Brigham Neuroscience Institute, we diagnose, evaluate, and treat seizure disorders. We also offer specialized care for women, older adults, children, and patients with cancer-related epilepsy.

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Comprehensive epilepsy treatment and services

Epilepsy is a chronic condition where abnormal brain activity causes recurring seizures. At the Mass General Brigham Neuroscience Institute, we provide cutting-edge evaluation and treatment for people living with epilepsy and seizure disorders. Care is delivered at our academic medical centers, which are designated Level 4 Epilepsy Centers by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers, as well as at our community locations. Through advanced diagnostics, treatment, and research, we support patients with even the most complex conditions.
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Part of the Neuroscience Institute
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Advanced treatments and innovation in epilepsy care

At Mass General Brigham, patients have access to some of the most advanced epilepsy treatments available. Our specialists were the first in New England to offer both deep brain stimulation (DBS) and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) for epilepsy, providing new options for people whose seizures are not controlled with medication.

Our team also leads research into new therapies, including focused ultrasound and other neuromodulation approaches designed to reduce seizures by targeting specific brain circuits.

What to expect at your first visit

You will meet with an epilepsy specialist who will review your medical history, imaging, and test results, and discuss your symptoms and goals. When possible, we also gather input from someone who has witnessed your seizures.

Because epilepsy is a chronic condition, we work with you and your referring provider to adjust treatment as needed over time, with a focus on improving seizure control and quality of life.

Second opinions for epilepsy patients

Second opinions are available for patients with complex seizures and neurological problems. We work closely with you and your physician to confirm your diagnosis and explore treatment options.

We can provide second opinions in two ways:

  • Review of your medical records, imaging, and test results
  • An in-person or virtual consultation with our epilepsy specialists

Our approach to care

From identifying the cause of your seizures to delivering care tailored to you, we support people with epilepsy at every stage, including the most complex cases.
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Multidisciplinary epilepsy and seizure care

Epilepsy affects every person differently. Your care team includes a multidisciplinary group of providers specializing in epilepsy, including:

  • Neurologists and epileptologists
  • Neuroradiologists
  • Neurosurgeons
  • Neuropsychologists

Together, we create a personalized treatment plan that reflects your condition, goals, and the latest advances in epilepsy care.

Expert diagnosis and testing

Our first priority is to determine the cause and type of seizure.

We use advanced imaging designed specifically for epilepsy so that we can identify brain changes that may not be visible with standard imaging. Mass General Brigham is one of the few in the world with a high-field 7-Tesla (7T) MRI scanner, which provides highly detailed views of the brain.

Many regional and national epilepsy centers refer patients to us for specialized studies or seek our guidance on imaging.

Advanced treatment for epilepsy and seizure disorders

We use advanced genetic testing, quantitative EEG analysis, and artificial intelligence tools to better understand the cause of seizures. These technologies help our specialists make more precise treatment decisions in both outpatient care and intensive care settings.

Your care may include:

  • Medical, neuropsychological, and psychosocial treatment
  • Advanced EEG monitoring and evaluation for epilepsy surgery
  • Surgery including resection, ablation, and implantation of neuromodulatory devices
Access to clinical trials and emerging therapies
Patients at Mass General Brigham may also be eligible to participate in clinical trials studying new epilepsy treatments, including innovative neuromodulation therapies designed to help people with seizures.
Our specialists help patients with epilepsy and seizure disorders manage their seizures and improve their quality of life.

Neuroscience care near you

Mass General Brigham delivers neurological and neurosurgical care across New England, offering convenient access to care close to home with seamless connection to specialized services.
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View epilepsy and seizure disorders locations
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Neuroscience clinical trials and research

Our research is shaping the future of neuroscience care. We offer access to clinical trials and emerging therapies, including treatments that may not yet be widely available. Eligibility depends on a person’s diagnosis, treatment history, and more. Explore our research and clinical trials or talk with your care team to learn about available options.
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Explore our neuroscience research

Learn how neuroscience research informs patient care

https://research.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/institutes-centers/neuroscience-institute
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Search clinical trials

Search open clinical trials for neurological conditions

https://rally.massgeneralbrigham.org/

Contact the Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders Service

Contact an epilepsy and seizure disorder service location or specialist to learn about your care options. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
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Find an epilepsy and seizure disorder specialist

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View locations

View epilepsy and seizure disorder locations

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International Patient Services

Contact information for international patients

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