WHAT IS A PARTIAL SPLIT BRAIN?

What is a partial split brain?


A partial split brain is a condition in which the corpus callosum, the bundle of nerve fibers that connects the two hemispheres of the brain, has been partially severed. This procedure is sometimes performed in individuals who have severe epilepsy that does not respond to other treatments, in order to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.

When the corpus callosum is partially split, the two hemispheres of the brain are still connected, but the connection is weaker than it would be in an individual with an intact corpus callosum. As a result, the two hemispheres are less able to communicate with each other and may function more independently. This can lead to some unusual behaviors and abilities, such as the ability to see an object in one hemisphere but not be able to name it when it is presented to the other hemisphere.

While a partial split brain may be effective at reducing seizures, it can also have some negative effects on cognitive functioning. For example, individuals with a partial split brain may have difficulty integrating information from both hemispheres of the brain and may have difficulty with certain types of problem-solving tasks.