Corpus callosotomy.

Abstract

Corpus callosotomy is an effective, relatively low-risk, palliative procedure for a selected population of patients with medically intractable epilepsy. Here we describe this technique. An interhemispheric microsurgical approach is performed. Neuronavigation facilitates orientation. The callosal body is transected through to the roof of the ipsilateral ventricle using an ultrasonic aspirator; the genu and rostrum are then identified and also split. If a total callosotomy is performed, transection of the splenium is performed with care given to preserve the crus of the fornix. Meticulous microsurgical technique and knowledge of the limbic system's anatomy is essential to keeping this procedure safe and effective.