AMYGDALOTOMY Meaning and
Definition
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Amygdalotomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal or destruction of the amygdala, a pair of almond-shaped structures located deep within the brain's temporal lobes. The amygdala plays a crucial role in emotional processing and the regulation of fear responses. Amygdalotomy is typically performed as a last resort for individuals who suffer from severe and treatment-resistant emotional or behavioral disorders.
The procedure involves making small incisions in the brain to access the amygdala. Techniques may vary, but commonly used methods include radiofrequency ablation, gamma knife radiosurgery, or bilateral stereotactic lesioning. These methods aim to selectively destroy or disable the amygdala's function without causing significant damage to surrounding brain structures. Advanced imaging techniques, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), may be used to guide the surgeon's precision and accuracy.
Amygdalotomy is primarily used to manage conditions that do not respond to more conservative treatments, such as pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy. Some of the conditions that amygdalotomy has been investigated for include severe anxiety disorders, aggression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and certain types of chronic pain.
While amygdalotomy may offer relief to individuals struggling with debilitating conditions, it is important to note that it is an invasive procedure with potential risks and side effects. These may include infection, cognitive impairments, changes in personality or emotional responsiveness, or unintended damage to nearby brain areas. This procedure is considered a last resort and is typically only recommended when all other treatment options have been exhausted.
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Tonsillotomy, excision of a portion of a tonsil.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for AMYGDALOTOMY
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Etymology of AMYGDALOTOMY
The word "amygdalotomy" is derived from the combination of two roots: "amygdala" and "tomy".
1. Amygdala: The term "amygdala" comes from the Greek word "amygdalē", which means "almond". The amygdala is a part of the brain that is almond-shaped, thus the name.
2. Tom(y): The word "tomy" is derived from the Greek word "tomē", which means "to cut" or "incision". In medical terminology, "tomy" refers to a surgical procedure involving cutting or incision.
Therefore, "amygdalotomy" is a compound word that combines "amygdala" with "tomy", indicating a surgical procedure or the act of cutting the amygdala.
Similar spelling words for AMYGDALOTOMY
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