Stereotactic hypothalamotomy for behaviour disorders

Posterior hypothalamotomy is a relatively simple stereotactic procedure. The radiological determination of the target and its physiological corroboration by electrical stimulation are accurate. The lesions have always been made in the site of maximum sympathetic response. In this respect, the cardiovascular changes (hypertension and tachycardia), which are always elicited from a more restricted area, are of particular importance. Depth recordings, however, have been less useful. Undesirable side-effects, if present, were mild and transitory. There was no postoperative intelligence deficit, at least with the standard tests.