Question

The aim of a pallidotomy is to damage the ________ division of the globus pallidus in order to ________ inhibition of the thalamus. a) Anterior, increase b) Medial, decrease c) Lateral, enhance d) Posterior, reduce

Answer 1

The aim of a pallidotomy is to damage the posterior division of the globus pallidus in order to reduce inhibition of the thalamus, thereby potentially improving motor function. So, the correct answer is d) Posterior, reduce.

Step-by-step explanation:

The aim of a pallidotomy is to damage the posterior division of the globus pallidus in order to reduce inhibition of the thalamus.

This procedure targets the internal segment of the globus pallidus (GPi), which is involved in the indirect pathway that typically increases inhibition of the thalamus. By damaging the posterior division of the globus pallidus, the pallidotomy can decrease the overactive inhibition that is causing movement disorders.

This reduction in inhibition allows the thalamus to better excite the cortex, potentially improving motor function in conditions like Parkinson's disease where excessive inhibition of the thalamus is a problem.

Thus, the correct answer is d) Posterior, reduce.