Hope and Healing for Pediatric Epilepsy in NJ
Pediatric epilepsy is a challenging neurological condition that affects many children, causing seizures and impacting their learning, communication, and daily life. However, advancements in pediatric epilepsy care offer effective solutions tailored to each child's needs. At the New Jersey Pediatric Neuroscience Institute (NJPNI), we specialize in providing comprehensive and compassionate care to help children with epilepsy lead healthier, fuller lives.
Let’s explore the best treatment options for pediatric epilepsy in NJ and how NJPNI can support your family on this journey.
Best Pediatric Epilepsy Care in NJ
Pediatric epilepsy care starts with an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. At NJPNI, our expert team combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to manage epilepsy effectively.
Types of Pediatric Epilepsy Care
- Medication Management
Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) are typically the first line of treatment for pediatric epilepsy. At NJPNI, we go beyond standard prescribing by integrating several advanced strategies:
- Pharmacogenomic Testing: We use pharmacogenomics to understand how your child’s genes may influence their response to specific medications, allowing us to personalize treatment and reduce trial-and-error prescribing.
- Pediatric Clinical Pharmacist: Our in-house pediatric pharmacist works closely with our neurologists to monitor drug efficacy, manage side effects, and optimize dosing for each child.
- Genetic Testing to Guide Treatment: Through comprehensive genetic evaluations—including epilepsy gene panels and whole exome sequencing—we identify potential genetic causes of epilepsy. This can inform medication choices, identify targeted therapies, and provide valuable prognostic insights.
Our goal is to reduce seizure frequency and severity while minimizing medication side effects—so your child can thrive in everyday life.
- Diet- and Nutrition-Based Therapy
Dietary therapies are increasingly recognized as effective treatments for certain types of epilepsy, particularly in children who don’t respond well to medications.
At NJPNI, we offer:
- Ketogenic Diet Therapy: A medically supervised high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that alters brain metabolism. This diet has shown to reduce seizures by 50% or more in many children.
- Modified Atkins Diet: A more flexible alternative to the classic ketogenic diet, offering similar benefits with improved adherence for some families.
Our dietary therapies are overseen by a specially trained pediatric nutritionist who works closely with your family to develop a personalized plan that meets your child’s medical and nutritional needs. Ongoing monitoring ensures that your child maintains healthy growth and development while on dietary therapy.
- Neurostimulation Therapy
For children who do not achieve seizure control with medication alone, neurostimulation offers a non-invasive and highly effective alternative. Options include:- Techniques like vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) use electrical impulses to regulate brain activity.
- Particularly effective for children who do not respond to medications alone.
Neurostimulation is often part of a broader treatment strategy and can be life-changing for children with drug-resistant epilepsy.
At NJPNI, our multidisciplinary approach ensures your child receives the best care from Pediatric Neurologists, Epileptologists, and dietitians.
Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery: A Path to Seizure Freedom
For children who do not respond to medications or other therapies, Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery can be a transformative option.
Types of Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery in NJ
- Focal Resection
- Removes the specific part of the brain causing seizures.
- Hemispherectomy
- A more extensive surgery, removing or disconnecting one hemisphere of the brain, used for severe cases.
- Corpus Callosotomy
- Cuts the fibers connecting the two sides of the brain to limit seizure spread.
Benefits of Surgery
- Seizure Reduction: Over 80% of children experience fewer or no seizures post-surgery.
- Improved Development: Reducing or stopping seizures can enhance cognition, focus, memory, and learning.
- Greater Independence: Families often report improved quality of life and decreased stress following surgery.
While any surgical procedure involves risks, NJPNI’s skilled Pediatric Neurosurgeons prioritize safety and long-term outcomes. At NJPNI, epilepsy surgery is performed by experienced pediatric neurosurgeons in partnership with pediatric epileptologists, ensuring safety, precision, and optimal outcomes.
Why Choose NJPNI for Pediatric Epilepsy Care?
At NJPNI, we bring together the full spectrum of pediatric epilepsy care under one roof.
Our Specialized Team Includes:
- Pediatric Neurologists
- Epileptologists
- Neurosurgeons
- Pediatric Clinical Pharmacist
- Registered Pediatric Dietitian
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker
We understand that treating epilepsy is not just about stopping seizures—it’s about supporting the whole child and their family.
Our Comprehensive Approach Features:
- Advanced Diagnostics: Routine and ambulatory EEG, video EEG monitoring, MRI, genetic testing, and more.
- Innovative Therapies: From personalized medications and dietary therapies to neurostimulation and surgery.
- Family-Centered Support: Social workers, educational guidance, and care coordination services to help families navigate their journey.
Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment
Early diagnosis is critical to prevent epilepsy from interfering with your child’s development. Timely intervention can:
- Prevent seizures from worsening or becoming more frequent.
- Support healthy brain growth.
- Improve learning, language, and social skills.
- Enhance overall quality of life for both your child and your family.
Schedule a Consultation at NJPNI
Don’t wait to get the help your child needs. At NJPNI, we provide:
- In-person and virtual appointments for your convenience.
- Access to a team of nationally recognized Pediatric Neurology and Neurosurgery experts.
- Compassionate care tailored to your child’s unique needs.
Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how we can help your child.Â
A Brighter Future for Children with Epilepsy
Pediatric epilepsy may be complex—but with the right care, your child can grow, learn, and thrive.
Whether it’s personalized medication guided by genetics, diet-based therapies, neurostimulation, or surgery, NJPNI is your partner every step of the way. Our goal is not just seizure control—but helping your child live their fullest life.
Contact us today to learn more about the best pediatric epilepsy treatment options in New Jersey.
Contact NJPNI today to take the first step toward better health and peace of mind for your family.
