Epilepsy Program

The Epilepsy Program at Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s is Arizona's leading pediatric epilepsy program, recognized nationally for excellence. We know that epilepsy is more than just a medical issue — it's a journey that impacts the entire family. With epilepsy affecting approximately 1 in 26 people over their lifetime, and children being the most frequently diagnosed, we are committed to offering more than just medical care. We provide a supportive and compassionate environment where advanced treatment and hope are seamlessly integrated.

As Arizona's only health system with a level 4 designation by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers, our program stands at the forefront of pediatric epilepsy care. This distinction reflects our deep commitment to providing the most advanced, comprehensive treatments available. Our expertise is enhanced by cutting-edge technology and innovative techniques like laser ablation and responsive neurostimulation, designed to offer your child the best possible outcome. These treatments are more than just medical innovations; they offer the potential of a brighter, seizure-free future for your child.

At the core of our program is a family-centered approach, where our team of nationally acclaimed pediatric epilepsy specialists works closely with you to meet your child's unique needs. Expertise in epilepsy management leads to better seizure control, which can significantly improve your child’s quality of life. Our mission goes beyond merely managing seizures; it focuses on empowering your child to live a full and vibrant life. We offer personalized care plans tailored to meet your child’s specific needs and adapt them as they evolve. We also empower families with the knowledge and resources necessary for managing epilepsy at home.

Our dedication and expertise in has earned us a national ranking by U.S. News & World Report for neurology and neurosurgery. We specialize in treating rare and complex forms of epilepsy and have one of the world’s leading programs for the research, evaluation and treatment of patients with hypothalamic hamartomas.

Customized Care with the Latest Treatment Options

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders affecting children. With appropriate treatment, many children with epilepsy can achieve seizure control or permanent remission and lead normal lives. However, about one-third of children may have refractory epilepsy, also known as “uncontrolled,” “intractable” or “drug-resistant” epilepsy, in which seizures are not adequately controlled with antiseizure medications and treatment. For these patients, our comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to care is especially beneficial.

Navigating your child’s care with newly diagnosed epilepsy can be challenging. Our experienced team of providers ensures compassionate, personalized care and support throughout your child’s journey – from diagnosis to management to exploring the best treatment options.

Our nationally renowned epilepsy specialists and neurosurgeons possess the expertise to accurately diagnose and manage even the most complex epilepsy cases. Utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and genetic testing, we are able to identify specific types of epilepsy and their underlying cause, ensuring that your child receives the most appropriate treatment.

We develop individualized treatment plans tailored to each child’s unique condition and needs, which may include medications, dietary therapy and surgical interventions. Our epileptologists — neurologists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy — are also engaged in innovative research and clinical trials, providing access to the latest and most effective treatment options.

Advanced treatment options include:

Surgery, including robotic guidance. Phoenix Children’s was the health system in the nation to use the Medtronic stereo electroencephalography (EEG) robot to provide visualization and guidance during neurosurgery and other procedures.
Laser Ablation
Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS)
Vagus Nerve Stimulations (VNS)
Ketogenic Diet Therapy

Hope for Intractable Epilepsy

While over 65% of children with epilepsy may respond well to medications, approximately 30% of patients may not. This condition, known by multiple names including “refractory", “uncontrolled", “intractable” or “drug-resistant” epilepsy, does not respond to standard treatment.

Depending on its severity, refractory epilepsy can impact a child’s academic performance, confidence and overall independence, such as obtaining a driver’s license or even future employment. It can also affect their quality of life. Children who have not responded to two or more medications should be referred to a pediatric epilepsy center for specialized evaluation.

By offering advanced treatment options and customized care plans, we aim to manage or treat refractory epilepsy so your child can have a safer, healthier life.