Moniz's Operative Technique

Moniz's operative technique refers to a surgical procedure developed by neurologist António Egas Moniz in the 1930s, known as a prefrontal lobotomy. This procedure involved surgically severing connections in the brain’s frontal lobes to treat severe mental illnesses. Moniz believed that disrupting these pathways could alleviate symptoms of disorders such as depression and anxiety. While it was initially seen as a breakthrough, many patients experienced significant side effects, including personality changes and cognitive impairments. Today, this technique is largely abandoned in favor of more effective and humane mental health treatments.