Bilateral cingulotomy is a neurosurgical procedure that involves the targeted destruction of a small portion of the cingulate gyrus, a part of the brain's limbic system involved in emotion regulation and pain processing. This procedure is typically performed on both sides of the brain, hence "bilateral," and is primarily used to treat severe, treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders, such as chronic depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or chronic pain syndromes. It is considered a form of psychosurgery and is usually reserved for patients who have not responded to conventional treatments like medication or psychotherapy. During the procedure, surgeons use stereotactic techniques to precisely locate the cingulate cortex and then destroy small amounts of brain tissue using heat, chemicals, or radiofrequency energy. Bilateral cingulotomy aims to disrupt neural circuits that contribute to the emotional and behavioral symptoms of these conditions, potentially providing relief where other treatments have failed. While bilateral cingulotomy can offer significant benefits for some patients, it carries potential risks and complications, as with any brain surgery. These may include infection, bleeding, seizures, or cognitive changes such as memory or attention deficits. Additionally, emotional blunting or changes in personality can occur, as the procedure affects brain areas involved in emotion regulation. Long-term complications are relatively rare, but careful patient selection and post-operative monitoring are essential. After the procedure, patients typically require continued psychiatric support and follow-up to assess the effectiveness of the surgery and manage any side effects.
