Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Conference 2026

When a child has had epilepsy surgery, new symptoms can be scary and can be misunderstood, especially in the emergency room. This neurosurgery-led session helps families recognize red flags that could point to a surgical or neurologic problem, and teaches you how to advocate clearly and effectively with ER staff and neurosurgical teams.
Surgeons will cover what they worry about when seizures return, behaviors suddenly change, or new “spells” appear, including signs of incomplete disconnection or other post-surgical complications, and both common and less obvious signs of hydrocephalus or shunt malfunction. We’ll talk about symptoms that can look like “behavior” but may actually be seizures or rising pressure in the brain, and what details help neurosurgeons act fast.

Families will leave with a practical ER advocacy toolkit: what to track at home, the key phrases that get the right attention, what imaging or consults are typically considered, what to ask for when you suspect a neurosurgical issue, and how to escalate respectfully if you’re not being heard. This session is designed to help you feel more prepared in high-stress moments.