Pallidotomy

Pallidotomy is a neurosurgical procedure that treats Parkinson's disease and related movement disorders by using an electrical probe to create a small lesion in the globus pallidus, a structure deep in the brain involved in motor control. The technique has been used since at least the 1950s, though it was later largely superseded by levodopa medication and by deep brain stimulation. A pallidotomy performed on one side of the brain can meaningfully reduce tremor and rigidity, but performing it on both sides carries a high risk of serious complications including apathy, depression and speech impairment.