The role of callosal section in surgical treatment of epilepsies.

Using current microsurgical technique, the procedures of both partial and complete corpus callosum section may be performed with minimal morbidity and with full assurance of completeness of callosal fiber division. Between 65% and 80% of patients have had significant improvement in terms of generalized seizure control. These results are similar to those observed at a number of other epilepsy centers now performing this surgery, and the benefit is long lasting. The neuropsychologic effects of callosal division have now been fairly well characterized. Although demonstrable in all patients, these rarely have been problematic and in nearly all instances have been outweighed by the benefit in terms of seizure control.