Aster DM Healthcare, one of India’s largest integrated healthcare networks, has launched its Centre of Excellence for Epilepsy in Bengaluru. The newly established Aster Global Institute for Advanced Epilepsy Care aims to deliver comprehensive diagnosis, advanced treatment, and long-term management for people living with epilepsy.
Jonty Rhodes Inaugurates the Centre
Global sporting icon and former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, who overcame epilepsy earlier in life, formally inaugurated the centre. His presence highlighted the message of resilience and hope for individuals affected by the condition.
Integrated Expertise and Advanced Technology
Located at Aster CMI Hospital, the Centre of Excellence brings together highly trained specialists, cutting-edge neurodiagnostic tools, and evidence-based care pathways. Four Aster Hospitals—Aster CMI, Aster RV, Aster Ramesh Guntur, and Aster MIMS Calicut—are collaborating to strengthen this advanced epilepsy care network.
Addressing Unmet Needs in Epilepsy Care
The initiative responds to the growing need for focused epilepsy services, especially for patients who do not respond adequately to medication. Globally, nearly 30% of epilepsy patients live with drug-resistant epilepsy, where surgical and advanced interventions can offer transformative results. In India, an estimated 10–12 million people have epilepsy, with nearly 90% in rural regions still untreated due to stigma and limited access. Therefore, dedicated centres offering early diagnosis and structured, high-quality treatment remain essential.
Leadership Perspectives on the Launch
Ramesh Kumar S, Chief Operating Officer – Aster DM Healthcare India, emphasized the significance of this milestone. He stated, “The establishment of Aster Global Institute for Advanced Epilepsy Care marks a major step in strengthening specialised neurological care. This centre enhances our ability to treat complex cases and reinforces our mission to provide timely, high-quality care to all patients.”
Dr. Ravi Gopal Varma, Director – Aster Global Institute of Neurosciences & Lead Consultant – Neurosurgery, highlighted the promise of surgical care. He noted, “Epilepsy surgery offers hope to patients who face daily uncertainty. We are committed to providing comprehensive evaluation and advanced surgical options so they can reclaim their lives with confidence.”
Proven Expertise in Epilepsy Surgery
Aster Hospitals has already emerged as a leading centre for epilepsy care, having conducted 266 epilepsy-related surgeries. A robust multidisciplinary team—comprising neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists, neurophysiologists, nuclear medicine specialists, anaesthetists, and rehabilitation professionals—supports these procedures.
Launch Coincides with EPISURG 2025
As reported by Express Healthcare, the Centre of Excellence was inaugurated during EPISURG 2025, an annual international conference on epilepsy surgery organized by the Aster Global Centre for Excellence in Neurosciences. This year’s theme—“Precision, Personalisation and Progress”—reflected the organisation’s focus on advancing technology-driven, patient-centred epilepsy care. Over the three-day event, experts from India and abroad participated in scientific discussions and hands-on sessions. They also joined collaborative learning forums dedicated to improving epilepsy management.