Bulbotomy

Bulbotomy: A Historical Review of Medulla Oblongata Incisions

Bulbotomy, a procedure used in medicine in the past, involved an incision or dissection of the medulla oblongata, also known as the bulbus medullae spinalis. This unusual and anatomically outdated method was popular during a certain period of research and practice, but has now lost its relevance. In this article we will look at the history of bulbotomy, its use, and the reasons for its obsolescence.

The historical roots of bulbotomy go back to the early 20th century, when neurosurgical procedures were just beginning to develop. At that time, the medulla oblongata was the subject of interest of many researchers who sought to understand its functions and effects on the body. Bulbotomy was developed as a way to access this area of ​​the brain for research and experimentation.

The bulbotomy procedure involved making an incision into the medulla oblongata, usually at or below the top of the cervix. Surgical access was carried out using a special instrument called a bulbotome. The incision allowed researchers and surgeons to study the functional characteristics of this area of ​​the brain, as well as conduct electrical stimulation to study connections with other neural structures.

At that time, bulbotomy was used in animal experiments and less frequently in humans. Its use stemmed from the hope of unlocking the secrets of the medulla oblongata and its influence on body functions such as breathing, cardiac function and motor skills. Bulbotomy was associated with complications and risks for patients, so it was used only for research or experimental purposes.

However, over time, bulbotomy has lost its popularity and use. With the development of neurosurgery and the advent of more accurate and safe methods for studying the brain, such as neuroimaging and electrophysiological methods, bulbotomy was gradually replaced. The benefits of the new techniques included more precise study of brain structures without the need for surgery and risk to patients.

Today, bulbotomy is of historical interest and reminds us of the development of neurosurgery and scientific research. Its use is limited exclusively to historical research and also poses significant ethical and practical barriers to use in modern medicine.

In conclusion, bulbotomy is a procedure that has been widely used in the past to study the medulla oblongata and its functions. It provided access to this area of ​​the brain, but is now outdated and has been replaced by more modern and safer methods of brain research. Thanks to advances in neurosurgery and new technologies, we can obtain more accurate information about the brain without the need for surgery.

Bulbotomy - what is it?

A bulbotomy is an operation to remove a large depression, or “bulb-shaped process,” in the head of the spinal cord. It is performed in the area of ​​the central canal. The name is associated with the Latin word “bulka”, meaning a depression or pocket. Accordingly, the “bulk” is removed using an operation - bulbotomy. The bulb is formed as a result of tissue fusion and connects to a large brain called the hindbrain. This operation can be performed not only on the brain, but also on the spinal cord. Its essence is to remove the foreign body from the interspinous foramen, as well as from the bone hooks of the ilium, in order to facilitate painful movement and eliminate the threat of bone tissue rupture. This is a fairly serious operation, as it affects the spinal column and