Single photon emission computed tomography imaging in obsessive-compulsive disorder and for stereotactic bilateral anterior cingulotomy.

In conclusion, the present study suggests that SPECT, using a sophisticated SPM analysis method, may be useful as a potential diagnostic tool for OCD and a possible predictor of treatment outcome for OCD patients undergoing bilateral anterior cingulotomy. The anterior cingulate gyrus seems to be an important structure in the pathogenesis of OCD symptoms. Furthermore, our operative technique of anterior cingulotomy, featuring a larger lesion, seems to be effective in ameliorating the symptoms of OCD without causing any serious complications.