Split-brain
Split-brain
Split-brain (/ˈsplɪt breɪn/) is a term used to describe the result when the corpus callosum connecting the two hemispheres of the brain is severed to some degree. The etymology of the term "split-brain" is fairly straightforward, with "split" meaning to divide or separate, and "brain" referring to the organ within the head.
Definition
Split-brain is a type of disconnection syndrome when the corpus callosum, a large bundle of nerves that connects the two hemispheres of the brain, is severed or damaged. This can result in each hemisphere functioning independently of the other, leading to a variety of unusual behaviors.
Symptoms
Symptoms of split-brain may include difficulty with problem-solving tasks, inconsistencies in response to stimuli, and challenges with coordination. In some cases, a person with split-brain may be able to verbally identify an object in their right visual field (processed by the left hemisphere), but not in their left visual field (processed by the right hemisphere).
Causes
The most common cause of split-brain is surgery to treat severe epilepsy. This procedure, known as a corpus callosotomy, involves cutting the corpus callosum to prevent the spread of epileptic seizures from one hemisphere to the other.
Treatment
Treatment for split-brain primarily involves managing symptoms and helping the individual adapt to their condition. This may include occupational therapy or physical therapy to improve coordination, as well as cognitive therapy to help with problem-solving and other cognitive tasks.
Related Terms
- Corpus callosum
- Hemispheres of the brain
- Disconnection syndrome
- Epilepsy
- Corpus callosotomy
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Cognitive therapy
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Split-brain
- Wikipedia's article - Split-brain
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski