Developing Criteria for Cortical Resections

The purpose of this study is to study how disease processes like tumors or epilepsy spread
in the brain. During surgery small pieces of abnormal (unusual) brain tissue may be removed.
We analyze these specimens using more advanced microscopic and electrophysiologic techniques
than are usually applied to such tissue specimens. In addition, some tissues can be
maintained in laboratory conditions to allow analysis over the longer term. No extra brain
tissue is taken to perform these studies. The tissue analysis is performed by the research
team and are compared to the routine (normal) electrical recordings that are taken during
this type of brain surgery. Currently there are no instructions telling a doctor how much
brain tissue should be cut out to prevent the spread of tumors or epilepsy. We are hoping
that the results of this study help us to better know how much brain tissue needs to be
removed to prevent the spread of tumors or epilepsy.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Surgical candidates with epilepsy or brain tumor(s)