By: Mohammad Hassan Bagheri
Introduction
For people with drug-resistant epilepsy, seizures can severely impact daily life, making work, education, and social activities difficult. In addition to the emotional and physical toll, epilepsy imposes high medical costs and financial strain on families and healthcare systems.
This study examines the total costs of epilepsy care before surgery and the long-term financial and social benefits of epilepsy surgery up to two years after the procedure. The results highlight how epilepsy surgery, despite its initial costs, can significantly improve quality of life while reducing financial burdens in the long run.
Study Overview
- Who Participated?
- 92 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who underwent resective brain surgery.
- How Was the Study Conducted?
- Researchers analyzed patients’ medical expenses before and after surgery.
- They also measured employment status, productivity, and financial dependence on social support.
- What Was the Goal?
- To compare pre-surgical healthcare costs with the long-term economic and social impact of epilepsy surgery.
Key Findings: The Cost and Benefit of Surgery
1. Pre-Surgical Costs: A Necessary Investment
Before surgery, patients undergo extensive medical evaluations, including:
✅ Advanced brain imaging (MRI, PET scans)
✅ Long-term EEG monitoring
✅ Specialist consultations and hospital visits
💰 These procedures are expensive but essential for identifying the right candidates for surgery.
2. Post-Surgical Costs: Significant Reduction
Two years after surgery, healthcare costs dropped dramatically because:
✅ Fewer hospital admissions and emergency visits
✅ Reduced medication use for many patients
✅ Less need for frequent doctor appointments
💡 Patients who became seizure-free required much less medical care, leading to long-term savings.
3. Social and Financial Benefits for Patients
✅ More people returned to work or school.
✅ Less dependence on disability benefits.
✅ Better quality of life and mental health.
💰 Many families experienced less financial and emotional stress.
4. Surgery is a Cost-Effective Long-Term Solution
Despite its high upfront cost, epilepsy surgery proves to be an investment that pays off in the long run.
✅ Lower lifetime medical costs
✅ Higher work productivity
✅ Reduced financial burden on families and healthcare systems
What This Means for Patients and Families
If you or a loved one has drug-resistant epilepsy, surgery could be a life-changing option. While it requires an initial financial commitment, the benefits include:
✔️ Better seizure control
✔️ Improved independence
✔️ More opportunities for work and education
✔️ Lower medical and caregiving costs over time
🔹 Final Message: Epilepsy surgery isn’t just a medical procedure—it’s an investment in a healthier, more independent future. If you are considering this option, consult a specialist to see if you are a good candidate.
Resources:
Maas, L., Peeters, C. B. C. M., Hiligsmann, M., van Kuijk, S. M. J., Tousseyn, S., Kellenaers, J., van Mastrigt, G. A. P. G., Vlooswijk, M. C. G., Klinkenberg, S., Wagner, L., Nelissen, J., Schijns, O. E. M. G., Majoie, H. J. M., Rijkers, K., ACE Epilepsy Surgery group, & Members of the ACE Epilepsy Surgery Group (2025). A prospective cohort study estimating total pre-surgical healthcare costs before and two-year total societal costs after resective brain surgery, and quality of life of patients with drug-resistant epilepsy undergoing surgery. Journal of medical economics, 28(1), 364–376. https://doi.org/10.1080/13696998.2025.2473745
