Real-Life Communication
There is much we still don't know about the functions of the brain.
As we learn, new techniques in surgery and treatment are discovered. Neurosurgeons
must read journals and literature to keep up with the latest information.
"We
have to read lots and lots," says Dr. Sherry Apple, a neurosurgeon. "Communication
skills are also important."
Neurosurgeons have to be able to communicate
ideas so their colleagues can benefit from new discoveries and innovations.
You
are pioneering a new surgical treatment for epilepsy. You are speaking to
a conference. You want to make sure that everyone in the audience is up to
speed on epilepsy. This is what you say:
Epilepsy is a
physical condition caused by sudden, brief changes in how the brain works.
It is estimated to affect one percent of the population. In about half of
all cases, no cause can be found. Head injuries, brain tumors, lead poisoning,
problems in brain development before birth, and certain genetic and infectious
illnesses can all cause epilepsy.
Epilepsy occurs when nerve cells
in the brain fire electrical impulses faster than normal. This causes a seizure,
which is like an electrical storm in the brain. A pattern of repeated seizures
is referred to as epilepsy.
Medication controls seizures for the majority
of patients. They are otherwise healthy and are able to live full and productive
lives. On the other hand, at least 200,000 Americans have seizures more than
once a month. Their lives are devastated by frequent, uncontrollable seizures
or associated disabilities.
This past decade has seen a dramatic increase
in our knowledge about epilepsy. However, there remains much tragedy in the
lives of many people with the disorder.
(Excerpted with permission
from: NINDS, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/.)
A
few people in the audience raise their hands. You answer their questions before
continuing with your speech.
- What causes epilepsy?
- How is epilepsy controlled?
- How can epilepsy disrupt a normal life?