LEUCOTOMY FOR PAIN

Abstract

Patients (25) treated for intractable pain were followed up for 18-78 months, assessment being made by the patient, the relative most concerned, clinically and with a social adjustment scale. Clinical improvement was noted in 68% and social rating gain in 80%. The operation was thought worth while by 38% of relatives and 35% of patients as compared to 89% and 75% in leucotomies performed for psychiatric reasons. Only 20% of the patients thought their pains less intense. "Extensive" operations were more favorably assessed than "limited" ones, but social rating gains were higher in the latter. Operations on the frontal lobes do not impair pain sensation or the reaction to it but decrease ability to elaborate a persisting attitude or mood. Best results of leucotomy may be expected in patients with limited severity of pain accompanied by depression.