Definition of Lobotomy

Lobotomy refers to a surgical procedure used to treat various psychiatric and mental disorders by removing or disrupting certain brain tissues or connections.

Prefrontal Lobotomy

Prefrontal lobotomy is a specific type of lobotomy that involves the surgical removal or destruction of the prefrontal cortex, which is the front portion of the frontal lobe of the brain.

This procedure was developed in the mid-20th century and was primarily used to treat severe psychiatric conditions, such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety disorders.

During a prefrontal lobotomy, the surgeon would access the frontal lobes through drilling holes in the skull or using an instrument called a leucotome to sever the connections between the prefrontal cortex and the rest of the brain.

Although prefrontal lobotomy was initially hailed as a significant advancement in the treatment of mental illness, it is now highly controversial due to its potential side effects and the emergence of more effective alternative treatments, such as medication and psychotherapy.

Today, lobotomy procedures are rarely performed, and are typically reserved for extreme cases where all other treatment options have been exhausted.