Stimulation of the Posterior Hypothalamus for Medically Intractable Impulsive and Violent Behavior

Abstract

HFS of the posteromedial hypothalamus showed similar results to those obtained by Sano et al. in the 1960s with radiofrequency lesions of the same target volume. The reversibility of neurostimulation allows HFS to control disruptive behavior when conservative treatments are ineffective, and drug therapy is uneventful or causes severe side effects. In conclusion, this neuromodulation procedure improved the quality of life and the range of social relationships for both of the treated patients.