Epileptic seizure prediction and the dynamics of the electrical fields in the brain

Although epileptic seizures appear to be random, there is evidence that there are changes in the brain’s dynamical behaviour prior to attacks. However, tracking the behaviour of a system as complicated as the brain is extremely challenging.

The field of epileptic seizure prediction has developed considerably over the last 30 years, but this important problem remains unsolved. We are developing an active strategy to monitor the brain by measuring responses to low-intensity electrical stimulation (below perceptual threshold). This approach represents a paradigm shift from conventional passive techniques (analysis of ongoing EEG activity) brain monitoring. It has the potential to contribute to clinically relevant outcomes, such as the development of an implantable therapeutic device for seizure prevention and improved methods for localising pathological neural tissue.

In addition, we are developing new intracranial EEG recording techniques. This is targeted towards maximising the amount of information recorded from the electrical fields of the brain. It is hoped that this work will lead to the improved identification of abnormal brain activity such as high frequency oscillations associated with the epileptic foci.

 

 

 

Funding

ARC Linkage Project “Prediction of Epilepsy Seizure Onset Using Nonlinear Analysis of EEG Recordings” (LP0560684).