We aim to investigate language production and verbal episodic memory performance, as well as the respective associated neural (co-)organisation of the two systems observed post-surgery in people with left temporal epilepsy in comparison to healthy…
ID
Source
Brief title
Condition
- Seizures (incl subtypes)
Synonym
Research involving
Sponsors and support
Intervention
Outcome measures
Primary outcome
Main study parameter is the task-related brain activity measured with
magnetoencephalography, together with patients* language and memory performance
based on experimental and standardised tests.
Secondary outcome
-
Background summary
Our knowledge of post-surgery cognitive outcomes for people with temporal lobe
epilepsy has been primarily shaped by investigations in the memory domain.
However, typically, apart from the neural structures associated with memory
function (such as hippocampi), anterior and basal cortical areas of the left
temporal lobe linked to language function are also removed during surgery.
Although assessed with basic neuropsychological tests pre- and post-operation,
language function remains largely understudied despite the fact that many
patients experience difficulties with finding words while speaking. Only
recently researchers started systematically exploring the impact of location
and size of resection on language abilities, with functional data on
post-operative organisation of function remaining scarce.
Study objective
We aim to investigate language production and verbal episodic memory
performance, as well as the respective associated neural (co-)organisation of
the two systems observed post-surgery in people with left temporal epilepsy in
comparison to healthy controls.
Study design
It is an observational study to assess patients* language and memory abilities
after surgery. The participants will have their T1 and T2-weighted structural
MRI brain scans made. Furthermore, they will perform picture-naming and memory
tasks while the magnetoencephalography is recorded. Finally, they will perform
the behavioural tests, namely, a visual object naming (Boston Naming Test), an
auditory object naming and an episodic memory (15-word test) test.
Study burden and risks
Experimental measures as well as the procedures of magnetoencephalography and
magnetic resonance imaging implicate minimal burden and risk to participants.
Patients do not directly benefit from their participation in terms of
therapeutic gain, but they obtain information about their cognitive abilities
and realise the intrinsic motivation frequently expressed by the participants.
Participants can withdraw from the study at any time point. The findings of
this study will yield further insights into the organization of the language
network after temporal lobe epilepsy surgery, including in relation to memory
function.
Montessorilaan 3
Nijmegen 6525HR
NL
Montessorilaan 3
Nijmegen 6525HR
NL
Listed location countries
Age
Inclusion criteria
- Native speakers of Dutch;
- 18 y.o. and older;
- Undergone epilepsy surgery in the mesial temporal/ temporal lobe (left
hemisphere);
- At least 1 year after surgery;
- Have seizures under control (combination of medication and surgery);
- Have normal IQ and are able to provide informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Uncontrollable seizures;
- Severe cognitive deficits post-surgery;
- Neurological and psychiatric disorders (other than epilepsy);
- Large and/or ferromagnetic metal parts in the head (except for a dental wire);
- Implanted cardiac pacemaker or neurostimulator;
- Claustraphobia;
- Pregnancy;
- Use of psychotropic or recreational drugs.
Design
Recruitment
Medical products/devices used
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In other registers
Register | ID |
---|---|
CCMO | NL85184.091.23 |