Lobotomy, also known as leucotomy, is a neurosurgical procedure that involves severing connections in the brain's prefrontal cortex. It was developed in the 1930s by Portuguese neurologist António Egas Moniz.
The procedure gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s as a treatment for various mental illnesses, including schizophrenia and severe depression. However, its effectiveness and ethical implications have been widely debated.
Despite its controversial nature, lobotomy had a significant impact on the field of psychiatry and our understanding of the brain. It paved the way for further research and the development of less invasive treatments.
Today, lobotomy is rarely performed, and alternative treatments such as medication and therapy are preferred. However, its history serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges in the field of mental health.