Pallidotomy

Pallidotomy is a neurosurgical procedure wherein a part of the brain called the Globus pallidus is lesioned. This procedure is primarily used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as rigidity, bradykinesia, and tremor. It can also be used to treat other neurological conditions like Dystonia and Huntington's disease.

History

The procedure was first performed in the 1940s and 1950s, but fell out of favor with the advent of Levodopa therapy. However, it saw a resurgence in the 1990s due to advancements in imaging technology and the understanding of the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease.

Procedure

During a pallidotomy, a small hole is drilled in the skull and an electrode is passed into the globus pallidus. The electrode is then heated to create a small lesion, which helps to alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, pallidotomy carries certain risks. These include infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding brain tissue. In rare cases, the procedure can cause cognitive and behavioral changes.

Effectiveness

Studies have shown that pallidotomy can significantly improve the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, particularly in patients who do not respond well to medication. However, it is less effective at treating the non-motor symptoms of the disease.

See Also

• Deep brain stimulation
• Thalamotomy
• Neurosurgery