Improving outcomes of epilepsy surgery using brain network analysis

Development of multimodal network analyses to improve epilepsy surgery outcomes

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11178296

This study is looking to help people with epilepsy who haven't found relief from medications by using advanced brain scans and technology to pinpoint the exact areas causing their seizures, which could lead to better surgery results and fewer unnecessary procedures.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11178296 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the success of epilepsy surgery for patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsy by accurately identifying the regions of the brain responsible for seizures, known as epileptogenic zones (EZs). The approach involves using advanced imaging techniques, including structural and functional MRI, along with machine learning to analyze brain connectivity patterns. By integrating these multimodal data, the study seeks to provide better guidance for surgical decisions, potentially leading to improved seizure control for patients. The research will also explore how these connectivity measures can predict surgical outcomes and help avoid unnecessary invasive procedures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with drug-resistant focal epilepsy who are considering surgical options.

Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy that is well-controlled by medication or those who do not qualify for surgery may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve seizure control and quality of life for patients undergoing epilepsy surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using brain connectivity analysis to improve surgical outcomes in epilepsy, suggesting that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Brain DiseasesBrain Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.