Lecture on Dr. Freeman and the Lobotomy Procedure

Introduction

• Dr. Freeman: An idealistic doctor with a desire for fame.
• Famous for championing the transorbital lobotomy.
• Aimed to solve psychiatric problems rapidly.

The Nature of Science

• Importance of observing how science can deviate from ethical paths.

The Transorbital Lobotomy

• First Patient: Ellen Ionesco.
• Procedure Overview:
  • Patient is rendered unconscious using electroconvulsive shock.
  • The process involved 1 to 6 convulsions based on the patient's age and constitution.
• Surgical Steps:
  • Lids peeled back, icepick inserted above eyeball.
  • Hammer taps the pick through the brain to sever frontal lobes.
  • Patients given dark glasses post-procedure to cover black eyes.
• Instruments: Initially used kitchen ice picks.
• Duration: Approximately 3-4 minutes.
• Minimal preparation required.

Reception and Impact

• Surge in lobotomies from 150 in 1945 to over 5,000 in 1949.
• Despite known side effects, there was a steady influx of patients.
• Notable reactions from fellow professionals included fainting and vomiting.

Decline of the Procedure

• Introduction of Thorazine in 1954 as a 'chemical lobotomy'.
• Freeman’s career shift to Los Altos, California due to Eastern medical establishment's disapproval.
• Expanded the procedure to new patient categories, including children and housewives.
• Freeman performed 2,900+ lobotomies by 1967.

Closure

• Last lobotomy in February 1967 ended in patient death due to brain hemorrhage.
• Freeman lost hospital privileges and retired.

Further Resources

• Additional content available at PBS.org, including full program, expert panels, and interviews.