Brain ablation in the rat cerebral cortex using a tunable-free electron laser.

Background And Objectives: We used the MARK III free electron laser (FEL) tuned to molecular vibrational absorbance maxima in the infrared (IR) wavelength range of 3.0-6.45 microm to study the effect of these various wavelengths and a power level of 5 mJ/2 microseconds macropulse on photoablation of CNS tissue.

Spontaneous and evoked dysesthesias observed in the rat after spinal cordotomies.

Thirty-six rats have received surgical spinal cord lesions, 7 at a thoracic and 29 at a cervical level. More than 70% of rats with lesions which involved the lateral column (spinothalamic tract) developed spontaneous dysesthesias in the contralateral limb. Only high cervical (C1-C2) lateral column lesions were followed frequently by forelimb signs.

The Duke experience with nucleus caudalis DREZ coagulation.

The results of 46 nucleus caudalis DREZ coagulations performed at Duke in the preceding 5 years are reviewed retrospectively, with a mean follow-up of 32 months. Fifteen (38%) of 39 patients with complete data indicated that they would undergo the procedure again. Fifteen (38%) described improved quality of life.