One of the most controversial medical procedures in history - Jenell Johnson
Summary
In the 1930s, neurologist Egas Moniz developed prefrontal lobotomy, inspired by research on chimps having their frontal lobes removed to relieve anxiety. Despite Moniz winning the Nobel Prize for his invention, prefrontal lobotomy faced backlash for its invasive and damaging effects on patients, ranging from emotional distress to cognitive decline. The procedure's popularity declined with the introduction of tranquilizers as a more humane treatment for mental illnesses.
Introduction of Prefrontal Lobotomy
In 1935, neurophysiologist John Farquhar Fulton presented research on removing the frontal lobes of chimps to alleviate frustration and anxiety, leading to the development of prefrontal lobotomy.
Egas Moniz's Belief in Lobotomy for Mental Illness
Portuguese neurologist Egas Moniz believed in replicating the chimp surgery in humans to cure mental illnesses, resulting in the controversial prefrontal lobotomy procedure.
Controversial Nature of Lobotomy
Prefrontal lobotomy, invented by Moniz, was controversial and criticized for its invasive nature with misleading reports of patient recovery, leading to its misapplication in mental health treatment.
Awarding of Nobel Prize to Moniz
Moniz received the Nobel Prize for his invention of prefrontal lobotomy, further popularized by neurologist Walter Freeman and neurosurgeon James Watts for purportedly helping patients lead normal lives.
Adverse Effects and Controversy Surrounding Lobotomy
Prefrontal lobotomy resulted in severe impairments, negative emotional effects, and cognitive decline in patients, leading to lasting controversy and eventual decline in popularity due to the introduction of tranquilizers.
FAQ
Q: What was the purpose of removing the frontal lobes in the research presented by John Farquhar Fulton?
A: To alleviate frustration and anxiety in chimps.
Q: Who believed in replicating the chimp surgery in humans to cure mental illnesses?
A: Portuguese neurologist Egas Moniz.
Q: What was the controversial procedure developed by Egas Moniz based on his belief in replicating the chimp surgery in humans?
A: Prefrontal lobotomy.
Q: Why was prefrontal lobotomy criticized?
A: It was criticized for its invasive nature and misleading reports of patient recovery.
Q: What did the introduction of tranquilizers lead to in terms of the popularity of prefrontal lobotomy?
A: It led to the eventual decline in popularity of prefrontal lobotomy.
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