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olfactory bulbectomy

Olfactory bulbectomy is a surgical procedure where the olfactory bulbs—structures in the brain responsible for processing smells—are removed or disconnected. This procedure is often used in research to study the brain's response to sensory loss and its effects on behavior and mood, especially relating to depression. It can lead to changes in emotional states, cognitive functions, and brain chemistry, providing insights into neuropsychiatric conditions. In clinical settings, it's rarely performed for diagnostic purposes but helps scientists understand the links between sensory processing and mental health.