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What specialist performs the pallidotomy?
Pallidotomy is performed in the hospital by a neurosurgeon, in coordination with the patient's neurologist.
What is a basic difference between the unilateral and bilateral pallidotomy?
For unilateral pallidotomy, a single "burr hole" is made in the top of the skull; bilateral pallidotomy requires two holes.
How does the pallidotomy procedure mimic the effect of dopamine?
Pallidotomy mimics this action by permanently destroying the GPi cells.
What is key to a successful outcome of a pallidotomy?
The key to successful outcome in pallidotomy is extremely precise placement of the electrode.
Why does the use of a topical anesthetic adequate during a pallidotomy?
Since there are no pain receptors in the brain, there is no need for deeper anesthetic.
What does a pallidotomy do?
In a pallidotomy, the globus pallidus is destroyed by heat, delivered by long thin needles inserted under anesthesia
When is a unilateral pallidotomy suggested?
Unilateral (one-sided) pallidotomy may be used if symptoms are markedly worse on one side or the other, or if the risks from bilateral (two-sided) pallidotomy are judged to be too great.
Why is the patient asked to make movements during a pallidotomy?
During the procedure, the patient will be asked to make various movements to assist in determining the location of the electrode.
What additional step is necessary in a bilateral pallidotomy?
If bilateral pallidotomy is being performed, the localizing and lesioning will be repeated on the other side.
Why is it essential that a patient stay awake during a pallidotomy?
In addition, the patient must remain awake in order to report any sensory changes during the surgery.
Visual changes during a pallidotomy may be indicative of what problem?
Visual changes may indicate the probe is too close to this region.
What type of hospital stay is required for a pallidotomy?
Pallidotomy takes several hours to perform. In some medical centers, pallidotomy is performed as an outpatient procedure, and patients are sent home the same day. Most centers provide an overnight stay or longer for observation and recuperation
