The ARCH Lab recently collaborated on a prospective study titled “Pre-Operative Predictors of Health-Related Quality of Life Two Years After Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Study” involving 95 pediatric cases, aimed to uncover the pre-operative predictors of Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) following epilepsy surgery. The HRQOL was assessed using the Quality of Life in Childhood Epilepsy Questionnaire (QOLCE)-55 both before surgery and two years later.

Key Findings:

1. QOLCE scores significantly improved after surgery
2. Pre-operative predictors of enhanced HRQOL included:
   • Using fewer anti-seizure medications
   • An older age at seizure onset
   • Higher pre-operative HRQOL
   • Greater family resources and stronger family relationships
   • Lower family demands
3. Caregiver characteristics had no significant impact on post-operative HRQOL
4. Multivariable regression analysis confirmed the importance of:
   • Older age at seizure onset for improved HRQOL
   • Higher pre-operative HRQOL for significantly better post-operative HRQOL

This study emphasizing the need to enhance pre-operative HRQOL for better post-surgery outcomes.