Despite the amazing progress made by the stereotactic technique,
particularly regarding the localization of the target, despite the
extreme caution, which stereotactic neurosurgeons apply at every step of
the procedures, despite the routine roentgenologic and physiologic
controls (depth EEG, electric stimulation) preceding the production of a
lesion, there remains a certain degree of uncertainty regarding the
position, shape and extent of the lesion as well as of the electrode
track and also regarding unintended lesions in the vicinity. The final
answer to these questions depends on the anatomical control. Thus we
must be grateful to the authors, who performed 3700 subcortical
stereotactic interventions, that they present a careful comparison of
the clinical and of the pathologic- anatomic findings, in the cases
whose brains could be studied. They demonstrate what degree of exactness
can be expected from the stereotactic technique. They also present a
careful outline of the morphology, physiology, biochemistry and
pathology of the structures that are affected in Parkinson patients. In
addition this monograph permits one to familiarize oneself with the
methods of stimulation and destruction practiced by the authors. The
relevant literature is conscientiously quoted. A study of this mono-
graph will benefit not only the stereotactic neurosurgeon, but also
neurophysiologists, pathologists and practicing neurologists.