LOXOTOMY Meaning and
Definition
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Loxotomy refers to a surgical procedure that involves the removal or destruction of a portion of the brain tissue in order to treat various neurological disorders or mental illnesses. Also known as leucotomy or lobotomy, loxotomy originated in the early 20th century and gained prominence in the 1930s as a treatment for conditions such as schizophrenia, severe depression, and anxiety disorders.
The procedure involves making an incision in the skull and accessing the brain, followed by the removal or sectioning of specific brain structures or nerve pathways. This intervention is intended to disrupt abnormal brain activity and alleviate symptoms associated with mental or neurological disorders. Different techniques of loxotomy have been employed throughout history, including prefrontal, transorbital, and subcaudate approaches.
Although initially hailed as a groundbreaking treatment option, loxotomy has faced significant controversy due to its adverse effects and ethical concerns. Patients who underwent the procedure often experienced severe personality changes, cognitive impairments, and reduced emotional responses. As a result, loxotomy gradually fell out of favor by the mid-20th century with the advent of safer and more effective alternative treatments such as neuropharmacology and psychotherapy.
In modern medical practice, loxotomy is rarely performed, and its use is limited to extreme cases where all other treatment options have failed.
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Amputation by means of an oblique incision through the soft parts; distinguished from a circular amputation.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LOXOTOMY
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