Bilateral cingulotomy

Bilateral cingulotomy is a form of neurosurgery that involves lesioning of the anterior cingulate cortex. This procedure is typically used as a last resort for treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and chronic pain that has not responded to other forms of treatment.

Procedure

The procedure involves creating small lesions in the anterior cingulate cortex, a part of the brain involved in mood regulation and response to pain. The lesions are created using a technique called stereotactic surgery, which involves the use of a three-dimensional coordinate system to locate the target area in the brain.

Uses

Bilateral cingulotomy is used to treat severe cases of OCD, MDD, and chronic pain that have not responded to other treatments. It is considered a last resort treatment due to the invasive nature of the procedure and the potential for serious side effects.

Effectiveness

Studies have shown that bilateral cingulotomy can be effective in reducing symptoms of OCD and MDD. However, the procedure is not without risks and potential side effects, including memory problems, personality changes, and cognitive deficits.

Risks and Side Effects

Potential risks and side effects of bilateral cingulotomy include infection, bleeding, seizures, stroke, and changes in personality, cognition, and memory. Due to these risks, the procedure is typically reserved for severe cases that have not responded to other treatments.

See Also

• Neurosurgery
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Major depressive disorder
• Chronic pain
• Stereotactic surgery