Ablative brain surgery

A surgical procedure for treating neurological disorders

Ablative Brain Surgery

A neurostimulator device used in conjunction with ablative brain surgery.

Ablative brain surgery is a type of neurosurgery that involves the removal or destruction of brain tissue to treat various neurological disorders. This procedure is typically considered when other treatments, such as medication or less invasive surgeries, have failed to alleviate symptoms.

History

The concept of ablative brain surgery dates back to the early 20th century, with the development of techniques such as lobotomy and pallidotomy. These procedures were initially used to treat severe psychiatric disorders and movement disorders, respectively. Over time, advancements in neuroscience and medical imaging have refined these techniques, allowing for more precise targeting of brain regions.

Indications

Ablative brain surgery is primarily indicated for patients with severe epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and certain types of chronic pain. It may also be considered for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or depression that is resistant to other forms of treatment.

Epilepsy

In patients with epilepsy, ablative surgery may involve the removal of the seizure focus, which is the area of the brain where seizures originate. This can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.

Parkinson's Disease

For patients with Parkinson's disease, ablative procedures such as thalamotomy or pallidotomy can help alleviate symptoms like tremors and rigidity by targeting specific brain regions involved in motor control.

Chronic Pain

Ablative surgery can also be used to treat chronic pain conditions by disrupting pain pathways in the brain, providing relief for patients who have not responded to other treatments.

Techniques

Several techniques are used in ablative brain surgery, including:

• Radiofrequency ablation: This technique uses heat generated by radio waves to destroy targeted brain tissue.
• Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT): A minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to ablate brain tissue.
• Gamma Knife surgery: A form of stereotactic radiosurgery that uses focused radiation to target and destroy brain tissue.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, ablative brain surgery carries risks, including infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding brain tissue. Potential complications depend on the specific area of the brain being targeted and the overall health of the patient.

Recovery and Outcomes

Recovery from ablative brain surgery varies depending on the extent of the procedure and the individual patient. Some patients may experience immediate relief from symptoms, while others may require additional therapy or rehabilitation. Long-term outcomes are generally positive, with many patients experiencing significant improvements in quality of life.

Related pages

• Neurosurgery
• Epilepsy surgery
• Deep brain stimulation
• Functional neurosurgery