West syndrome Treatment in NP Istanbul Brain Hospital

Diagnostics and treatment for West syndrome (infantile spasms) is available at the NP Istanbul Brain Hospital in Istanbul, Turkey. A consultation may cost around $300, a comprehensive diagnostic package is around $1,890, and surgical treatment like vagus nerve stimulation typically runs $20,000–$26,000. The clinic is ranked the second brain hospital in Europe and is accredited by JCI and ISO for patient safety.

Expert Diagnostics for West Syndrome

Accurate diagnosis is the first step. The clinic offers a full spectrum of neurological tests. A neurologist consultation is the starting point. Diagnostic imaging includes Brain MRI and CT scans. EEG (Electroencephalography) records brain wave activity and may cost around $200–$400. More advanced tests like a 12-hour Sleep EEG are also available.

For convenience, several pre-arranged packages are offered. The Diagnostic epilepsy/West-syndrome package costs around $1,890. It includes:

• Neurology consultation
• Cranial MRI with sedation
• Sleep QEEG (Brain Mapping)
• Comprehensive blood tests (Hemogram, Thyroid, Vitamin levels)

A more extensive Comprehensive neurology work-up is also available. This costs around $2,200–$2,800. It includes a cranial MRI under anesthesia and a 12-hour video EEG.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Treatment is tailored to each child's needs. The approach is led by neurologists like Prof. Baris Metin. He has 25 years of experience with a focus on West syndrome. The clinic uses evidence-based approaches affiliated with Johns Hopkins.

Available treatment options include:

• ACTH therapy: A first-line hormonal treatment for infantile spasms.
• Vigabatrin: An antiepileptic drug effective for spasms.
• Ketogenic diet: A specialized dietary therapy to help control seizures.
• Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS): A surgical option for drug-resistant cases.

Surgical Intervention: Vagus Nerve Stimulation

VNS is considered when medications are not effective. It involves implanting a small pulse generator under the skin. This device sends mild electrical pulses to the brain via the vagus nerve. The goal is to reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures.

The Vagus nerve stimulation package may cost around $20,000–$26,000. It typically includes the device implantation, the hospital stay, and follow-up programming sessions. The clinic provides free airport transfers and interpreter services for international inpatients. Ongoing care is supported through 24/7 telemedicine services.

Families seeking a specialized center for West syndrome can contact the hospital to discuss a personalized diagnostic and treatment plan.