With lesioning techniques, deliberate, selective damage (a lesion) is made within particular parts of the brain. Computer imaging is used to locate the target site precisely while the patient’s head is kept in place with a stereotactic frame (also used in Deep Brain Stimulation ). The lesion is created by inserting an electrode with its tip at the optimum point and then passing an electric current through the tip.
There are currently three target sites:
Because lesioning techniques are irreversible, this type of surgery is not ideal and is generally only done on one side because of there are high risks associated with two-sided lesioning.