Survey of epilepsy and seizure awareness in Manitoba: An evaluation

Abstract

BACKGROUND\nEpilepsy and seizure awareness is gradually improving across Canada. With the strategic proposal for a Comprehensive Epilepsy Program in Manitoba (including formation of a new Pediatric Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU)), a provincial strategy has been recommended outlining a path towards improved access to epilepsy care. We sought to qualify the current state of clinician knowledge and comfort towards diagnosis and management of this condition.\n\n\nMETHODS\nA qualitative online survey (Survey of Epilepsy and Seizure Awareness in Manitoba: An Evaluation (SESAME)), comprised of 36 short-answer questions, was delivered to primary care and specialist physicians in Manitoba.\n\n\nRESULTS\nOne hundred and eight subjects responded across varying medical disciplines. One hundred and one (93.5%) had previously managed patients with epilepsy, and 87 (80.6%) had previously ordered an electroencephalogram (EEG). A total of 63 (59.4%) had referred to a neurologist, with a lower proportion (30, 28.3%) referring specifically to an epileptologist. Only 36 respondents (33.3%) had heard of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) guidelines. A total of 61 (56.5%) were unaware of invasive EEG techniques. Most (85, 78.7%) understood a role for surgery in treating epilepsy, with 12 (11.1%) unaware of surgical therapies beyond vagal nerve stimulation (VNS). Finally, less than half (44.2%) had heard about the Comprehensive Epilepsy Program in Manitoba, with nearly two-thirds (62.8%) indicating that they would like to have more information on epilepsy management.\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nThe SESAME successfully identified strong awareness towards epilepsy, with identifiable lapses in knowledge that will benefit from a formal provincial-wide educational curriculum.