Neurological Functional Surgery in Mexico: From Pre-Columbian Cranial Surgery to Functional Neurosurgery in the 21st Century

Abstract

From the predominance of the pre-Columbian cultures to the present, an interest has existed in Mexico in brain structure and function, in both normal and pathological conditions. This interest has resulted in both medical and surgical attempts to treat some neurological conditions. Eighty years ago, with the influence of American and European neurosurgeons, modern Mexican neurosurgery emerged. Since then, it has progressively grown and diversified into several high specialties. At present, functional neurosurgery in Mexico constitutes, similar to that in other countries, a recognized surgical subspecialty that provides valuable information to treat brain dysfunctions such as movement disorders, pain, epilepsy, and other conditions. In the present report, we have briefly described the main historical aspects of the emergence and development of functional neurosurgery in Mexico.

Keywords: Functional neurosurgery; History; Mexico.