Electroencephalographic Studies on three cases of Frontal Lobotomy

Abstract

In 2 cases electroencephalographic recordings were taken from mid-line positions in the frontal, precentral and occipital areas. In the 3d case, records were included from the right, left, and mid-line regions of the frontal, precentral and occipital areas. In case 1, EEG''s taken wks. after bilateral frontal lobotomy showed no change from the pre-operational records. At this stage there also appeared no change in behavior or mental condition. Later, the patient''s condition improved greatly but there was no opportunity for taking further EEG records. In case 2, the EEG record was taken 7 wks. after lobotomy. Another record was secured 11 mos. after operation. In both the post-operational EEG''s the abnormal brain activity had been greatly reduced and there had also been marked clinical improvement. In case 3, the 3 records taken before lobotomy showed no essential change in a 4 mo. period. Slow waves as well as low voltage fast waves were present. Records taken 3 wks. after lobotomy showed greater instability in the frontal and precentral regions but a more normal record from the occipital area. Clinically the patient improved markedly and he was discharged from the hospital. The lobotomy in the three patients apparently left the cortical activity of the brain more normal than in the patients who had undergone shock [insulin and metrazol] therapy. There was no significant change in the EEG''s even from the frontal area post-operationally, although this had been undercut.