Epilepsy is a disorder involving repeated seizures, or episodes of disturbed brain function that cause changes in attention and/or behavior. Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical excitation in the brain. Seizures can be related to a temporary condition such as exposure to drugs, withdrawal from certain drugs or abnormal levels of sodium or glucose in the blood. In these cases repeated seizures may be prevented when the underlying problems are corrected.

In other instances, brain issues including stroke or head trauma can lead to abnormally excitable brain tissue and seizures. In some cases no root cause can be identified.

NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) offers skilled, board-certified neurologists who are committed to advanced and compassionate treatment for patients with epilepsy. Our epilepsy team includes physicians with specialty board certification in neurophysiology.

Diagnosis and treatment in our program is supported by the latest digital technology. We offer patients options in non-invasive monitoring including long-term, overnight and 24-hour EEG monitoring. Our neurophysiology lab employs professionals trained to expertly read and analyze brain recordings. The board certified staff is well versed in the use of this cutting edge technology and provide expert interpretation.

Our Epilepsy Program offers the full compliment of the latest prescription medication for epilepsy treatment. However, not all epilepsy patients are successfully treated with medications.

NorthShore’s physicians have demonstrated expertise in management of intractable epilepsy, providing life-changing options with Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS).

VNS is a unique treatment that is delivered through an implanted device similar to a pacemaker and a thin flexible wire that sends mild stimulation to the vagus nerve, one of the primary communication pathways between the brain and the body. The vagus nerve delivers periodic stimulation to the brain which helps prevent or interrupts seizures. VNS therapy involves a minimally invasive procedure and two small incisions made in on the side of the neck and below the collarbone; and does not involve brain surgery.

NorthShore’s VNS program includes comprehensive patient management, including consistent care and support from a dedicated nurse coordinator. VNS has literally revolutionized care for many epilepsy patients who are not successfully treated through medication. The therapy provides a 30 to 70 percent improvement in the prevalence of seizures and a significant improvement in related depression often found in epilepsy patients. NorthShore is a nationally recognized leader in providing VNS therapy.

Our Specialists

NorthShore’s team care approach brings together neurology specialists, precisely-trained surgeons for VNS procedures, a passionate and experienced VNS nurse specialist and related clinical experts.

Physicians
Lawrence P. Bernstein, MD
Sofia Dobrin, MD
Irene A. Semenov, DO
Jesse E. Taber, MD
Charles Wang, MD

Nurses
Mardee Weber, RN

Patient Support

NorthShore’s Epilepsy program is dedicated to helping patients and their families cope with this life changing condition. We enjoy a collaborative relationship with the Epilepsy Services for Northeastern Illinois, a United Way agency providing support for epilepsy patients.