{"id":"dcc10b83-206b-4eb1-a64c-ba9bbce22fcc","slug":"violence-mental-illness-and-the-brain-a-brief-history-of-psychosurgery-part-1-from-trephination-to-lobotomy","title":"Violence, mental illness, and the brain – A brief history of psychosurgery: Part 1 – From trephination to lobotomy","authors":["Miguel A. Faria"],"abstract":"Background: Trephination is the oldest documented surgical procedure, performed by shamans to alter human behavior, particularly in cases of mental illness. Throughout history, mentally ill individuals have often been ostracized and subjected to various surgical interventions, including trepanation, to alleviate symptoms believed to be caused by evil spirits or other ailments. Methods: The article reviews historical practices of psychosurgery, including trephination and lobotomy, by examining ancient surgical instruments and notable cases, such as Phineas Gage. It discusses the evolution of surgical techniques and their implications for understanding mental illness and behavior. Results: The findings illustrate the transition from trephination in ancient cultures to more structured psychosurgical procedures in the 20th century, including the development of lobotomy. The article highlights significant cases and experiments that shaped the understanding of brain function and behavior, particularly the effects of frontal lobe damage. Conclusion: The history of psychosurgery reflects a complex interplay between societal perceptions of mental illness and the evolution of surgical techniques. Despite advancements, the ethical implications and effectiveness of such interventions remain critical considerations in the treatment of mental disorders. Keywords: psychosurgery, trephination, lobotomy, mental illness, frontal lobe, history, surgery, behavior","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/dcc10b83-206b-4eb1-a64c-ba9bbce22fcc/featured/hero-1782420846182.png","publishDate":"2013-04-05T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.4103/2152-7806.110146","categories":["Original Article"],"fullTextUrl":"http://sni.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/3700/SNI-4-49.pdf"}