What does leucotomy mean?
Leucotomy refers to a type of surgical procedure that was formerly used to treat mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. The procedure involved cutting or scraping away parts of the brain, with the goal of alleviating symptoms of severe mental illness. Although leucotomy was once seen as a promising treatment, it is now widely discredited due to its invasive nature and potential side effects. The term leucotomy is often used interchangeably with lobotomy, and is generally considered a formal or technical term. It is often used in medical or historical contexts to describe this now-outdated procedure.
nounA surgical procedure that involves cutting or scraping away parts of the brain, typically to treat mental illnesses. The procedure was formerly used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia.
- A surgical procedure for treating mental illness by cutting brain tissue.
- A type of psychosurgery.
"The patient underwent a leucotomy in an attempt to alleviate symptoms of severe mental illness."
"The leucotomy was performed in the hopes of reducing the patient's symptoms."
"The procedure was widely criticized for its invasive nature and potential side effects."
The plural form is used when referring to multiple instances of the procedure.
"The hospital performed several leucotomies in the 1950s as part of a now-discredited treatment program."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of leucotomy
The term leucotomy is derived from the Greek words 'leukos', meaning 'white', and 'tome', meaning 'cutting'. The suffix '-otomy' is used to form names of surgical procedures. The term leucotomy was first used in the mid-20th century to describe this type of psychosurgery.
Usage notes
This term is generally considered formal or technical, and is often used in medical or historical contexts. The procedure is now widely discredited and rarely performed.