Medical College of Georgia Program

The Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University offers a distinguished Epilepsy Program, recognized as one of the leading epilepsy centers in the country. With a commitment to providing comprehensive care, the program aims for patients, both adults and children, to lead seizure-free lives. Since its inception in 1977, the epilepsy program at MCG has been a nationally recognized referral center, performing thousands of epilepsy-related surgeries. The program has attained Level IV certification from the National Association of Epilepsy Centers, which is the highest designation awarded for epilepsy centers, ensuring that patients receive state-of-the-art care with the most advanced technologies available 1.

At its core, the Epilepsy Program comprises a multidisciplinary team of health professionals dedicated to various specialties within neurology and its subspecialties. This includes experts in neurosurgery, neuropsychology, nursing, and EEG technology, all of whom provide an extensive range of diagnostic services, cutting-edge medical treatments, and sophisticated surgical procedures designed to manage epilepsy 1.

Clinical Facilities and Rotations

The program utilizes advanced diagnostic methods such as subtraction ictal SPECT co-registered to MRI (SISCOM), electroencephalography (EEG), computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET). These technologies are fundamental in accurately diagnosing epilepsy and formulating treatment plans tailored to individual patients 1. Additionally, the program offers inpatient video EEG monitoring, including procedures such as stereoelectroencephalography (stereo EEG), used for investigating complex cases of epilepsy 1.

Research Opportunities

Research initiatives at the Medical College of Georgia emphasize advancements in understanding and treating epilepsy. The program is involved in several clinical trials targeting various age groups, from infants to young adults, aiming to evaluate new therapies and medication efficacy in managing seizure disorders 1. Notable studies include the exploration of novel pharmacological treatments such as perampanel, lacosamide, and brivaracetam, which are assessed for their safety and effectiveness in different pediatric populations 1.

Unique Program Aspects

The program's excellence is further underscored by its utilization of advanced clinical research to enhance patient outcomes. This involves collaborative efforts between the program's faculty and researchers focusing on the implications of epilepsy on memory functioning, as well as emerging treatment options such as cannabidiol (CBD) for treatment-resistant epilepsy in children. Research findings from these studies are shared in top-tier medical journals, signaling the program's commitment to advancing the field of epilepsy treatment 1.

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The Medical College of Georgia Epilepsy Program offers visa support for international medical graduates. The program can sponsor various visa types, allowing eligible candidates to participate in the residency or fellowship opportunities, placing a strong emphasis on diversity and international collaboration within the neurology field.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The program is recognized for its competitiveness, attracting a diverse pool of applicants, including both US and international medical graduates. Special attention is given to candidates who have demonstrated strong academic performance and relevant clinical experiences in neurology. Specific application requirements may include criteria such as year of graduation from medical school and limits on the number of failed STEP exams, reflecting the program's commitment to maintaining high educational standards and selecting candidates who fit well within the residency culture 1.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University's Epilepsy Program stands as a pillar of excellence in the field of epilepsy treatment, offering high-quality patient care integrated with research and specialization in surgical procedures. This dedication to care not only serves the local community but also contributes broadly to advancements in epilepsy management.