Neuro-physio-sutgery in the Netherlands since 1971

Summary

In the Netherlands since 1971 a working group consisting of representatives of relevant specialisms actively discussed all patients in whom neuro-physio-surgery was considered. This term is used for indicating brain surgery for psychiatric or epileptic patients. The number of patients submitted is small,i.e., 123 in approximately 8 years. Of these 123 patients, after extensive discussion, 48 have been treated by neurosurgical intervention,i.e., 36 psychiatric and 12 epileptic cases.

All patients who have been operated on were “hopeless” cases in whom no conventional therapy was effective. Neuro-physio-surgery (NFS) as an ultimate resort, has given relief to the majority of these patients. It is felt that the discussions by a relatively large group of specialists provide optimal protection to the patient, and that the chances are minimal that NFS would be carried out on the basis of inadequate or insufficient indications.