Corpus callosotomy
A palliative surgical procedure involving sectioning of the corpus callosum to prevent seizure spread between brain hemispheres.
Full Definition
Corpus callosotomy is a palliative epilepsy surgery that involves partial or complete surgical division of the corpus callosum, the major white matter tract connecting the two cerebral hemispheres. This procedure is primarily performed in patients with medically refractory generalized epilepsy, particularly those experiencing frequent drop attacks (atonic seizures) that result in injury. By disconnecting the hemispheres, the surgery prevents seizures from spreading from one side of the brain to the other, often reducing the frequency and severity of generalized seizures while potentially leaving focal seizures unchanged.
Usage
Usage note: Palliative procedure - aims to reduce seizure severity rather than eliminate seizures entirely.
In Context
- "Corpus callosotomy significantly reduced the patient's drop attacks and subsequent injuries." — Surgical outcome report
- "Two-stage corpus callosotomy was planned to minimize the risk of disconnection syndrome." — Pre-surgical planning note