Egas Moniz (António)

António Egas Moniz was a Portuguese neurologist and professor who is best known for developing the controversial procedure of lobotomy in the 1930s. He believed that by surgically disconnecting certain brain regions, he could alleviate severe mental illnesses. Moniz was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1949 for his work, highlighting its impact on psychiatry. However, lobotomy later fell out of favor due to its serious side effects and ethical concerns. Moniz's legacy is complex, as he contributed to the field of psychosurgery but also raised questions about medical ethics and patient care.