Overview
The lecture explores the brain's remarkable plasticity through the case of Jody Miller, a young girl who underwent a hemispherectomy to control severe seizures, demonstrating the brain's ability to adapt and recover.
Case Study: Jody Miller
- Jody Miller developed severe epileptic seizures at age three, losing function on her left side.
- Medicines were ineffective, and seizures threatened her life.
- Doctors identified the seizures as originating from her right hemisphere, likely due to Rasmussen syndrome.
- The surgical solution was a hemispherectomy—removal of her right cerebral hemisphere.
The Hemispherectomy Procedure
- Hemispherectomy involves removing one cerebral hemisphere, which seems impossible but can be life-saving.
- The brain's cerebral cortex is divided into two hemispheres, each controlling the opposite side of the body.
- The surgery must avoid damaging areas responsible for life functions like heartbeat and breathing.
- After surgery, the cavity left by the removed hemisphere fills with cerebrospinal fluid.
Brain Plasticity and Recovery
- Brain plasticity is the ability of the brain to change structure and form new neural connections after injury or loss.
- Jody's left hemisphere adapted to take over functions previously managed by the right hemisphere.
- She was able to walk and function normally soon after surgery, with minimal paralysis left.
Ongoing Rehabilitation
- Jody continues physical therapy to further overcome weakness or paralysis on her left side.
- Continued brain training and stretching exercises are part of her recovery process.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Epileptic Seizures — Sudden electrical disturbances in the brain causing changes in behavior or movement.
- Rasmussen Syndrome — A rare, degenerative brain disorder causing seizures and loss of motor skills.
- Hemispherectomy — Surgical removal of one hemisphere (half) of the brain.
- Cerebral Cortex — The outer layer of the brain involved in higher functions like thought, movement, and sensation.
- Plasticity — The brain's ability to adapt structurally and functionally after injury or changes.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the definitions of brain plasticity and hemispherectomy for upcoming quizzes.
- Read about other cases demonstrating brain plasticity for homework.