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[What can we learn from the lobotomy period?]
H Waal1, E Kringlen, S Ersland
1Psykiatrisk institutt, Oslo.
Insights
A 1991 review of 300 lobotomies at Gaustad Hospital revealed high mortality rates and questionable practices. The study highlights the need for ethical oversight in psychiatric treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Medical Ethics
Context:
- A 1991 Commission of Inquiry investigated lobotomy practices in Norway.
- Public debate surrounding lobotomy procedures prompted the investigation.
- The study focused on 300 patient records from Gaustad Hospital.
Purpose:
- To review the historical application and outcomes of lobotomy.
- To assess the ethical considerations and quality of care in past psychiatric surgeries.
- To inform contemporary practices regarding patient consent and involuntary treatment.
Summary:
- Psychiatrists reviewed 300 lobotomies performed at Gaustad Hospital.
- Findings indicated a high mortality rate, particularly in the 1940s.
- Surgical indications were broader than recommended, and information provided to families was often inadequate.
Impact:
- The review underscores the critical need for stringent ethical guidelines in psychiatric care.
- It emphasizes the importance of societal control and critique in medical practices.
- Recommendations include integrating ethical considerations into quality control for new treatments.
Abstract:
In 1991 the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs appointed a Commission of Inquiry, precipitated by a heated public debate on lobotomy. A group of four psychiatrists studied the case records of 300 patients lobotomized at Gaustad Hospital. The main review by the medical group focused on the high mortality rate during the 1940s. Also, surgery was done on broader indications than officially recommended, and the information given to the next of kin was often questionable. Since the obligation of the psychiatric profession also involves involuntary treatment, particular caution should be exercised in administering new methods. It is important to ensure control and critique by society. Ethical considerations should be integrated into quality control.