Notes on Brain Function and Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery

Overview of Brain Function and Surgery

• Brain Sensory Interpretation

  • The brain interprets sensory information but does not contain sensory neurons.
  • Thus, the brain itself does not feel pain.

• Interneurons in the Cortex

  • The cortex is composed mainly of interneurons.
  • Interneurons are responsible for communication within the brain, not sensation.

Brain Surgery Under Anesthesia

• Awake Brain Surgery

  • Surgeries sometimes occur while patients are awake, which may seem unusual.
  • This practice helps surgeons avoid interfering with brain functions critical to the patient.
  • Every patient’s brain anatomy slightly differs, requiring personalized approaches during surgery.

• Eddie Adcock's Case

  • Eddie Adcock is a renowned banjo player who experienced severe hand tremors impacting his music career.
  • He was diagnosed with essential tremor, an involuntary trembling movement affecting hands and head, impacting around ten million Americans.
  • Adcock’s condition was deeply distressing as music is a central part of his life.

Deep Brain Stimulation Procedure

• Procedure Explanation

  • Doctors at Vanderbilt University Medical Center proposed deep brain stimulation (DBS) to alleviate Adcock's tremors.
  • The procedure involves placing an electrode in the thalamus, a brain region involved in motor control.
  • The electrode is connected to a pacemaker-like device that delivers electrical impulses to interrupt tremors.

• Activation and Results

  • The device can be activated remotely by doctors, providing immediate adjustments during the procedure.
  • Upon activation, Adcock reports a tingling sensation, indicating the current is affecting brain function.
  • Following stimulation, Adcock's ability to draw a spiral and sign his name improved drastically, showcasing the treatment's success.
  • This underscores how medical technology can restore capabilities crucial for personal identity and livelihood, particularly in the arts.