Anterior cingulotomy
Anterior cingulotomy creates small targeted lesions in a brain region involved in the experience and impact of pain. It may be considered for selected cases of severe, refractory cancer-related or non-cancer pain after multidisciplinary review.
A shared decision with the pain team
Assessment considers the cause of pain, treatments already tried, psychological and cognitive health, goals and practical support. Other interventions, including neuromodulation, may be discussed where appropriate. Benefit is uncertain, and surgery can have serious complications, including bleeding, infection and changes in cognition or behaviour.