Thalamotomy

Thalamotomy is a surgical procedure that involves the creation of lesions in the thalamus, a part of the brain that plays a significant role in motor control. It is primarily used to treat Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and other movement disorders.

History

The procedure was first performed in the 1950s by Irving S. Cooper, a neurosurgeon from New York. Cooper discovered that creating a lesion in the thalamus could alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and essential tremor.

Procedure

During a thalamotomy, the patient is usually awake and responsive. The surgeon uses MRI or CT scan to guide a probe to the correct location in the thalamus. Once the probe is in place, it is heated to create a small lesion. This lesion disrupts the abnormal brain activity that is causing the movement disorder.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgical procedures, thalamotomy carries some risks. These include infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding brain tissue. Some patients may also experience changes in sensation, speech difficulties, or problems with balance after the procedure.

Effectiveness

Thalamotomy can be very effective in reducing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and essential tremor. However, it is usually only considered when other treatments have failed, due to the risks associated with the procedure.

See Also

• Deep brain stimulation
• Parkinson's disease
• Essential tremor

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  Frame for Stereotactic Thalamotomy on display at the Glenside Museum