AUTONOMIC EFFECTS ON STIMULATING ROSTRAL PORTION OF CINGULATE GYRI IN MAN

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Abstract
In view of the current interest in the function of the cingulate gyrus, both from the aspect of its control of autonomic functions and its relationship to emotions, it was decided to observe the effect of stimulation of the rostral cingulate gyrus in man. Opportunity to carry out this study was afforded us, as this region can easily be exposed prior to excision of frontal cortex, during the routine topectomy operation on psychotic patients. The autonomic effects of bilateral simultaneous stimulation of the rostral cingulate gyrus in 12 patients constitute the basis of this report. Changes in pulse, blood pressure, and respiration occurred singly or in varying combinations in each case following stimulation of the cingulate gyrus. In no instance were similar changes noted on bilateral simultaneous stimulation of the medial or lateral aspects of the frontal cortex in the region of Brodmann''s areas 9 and 10, identical stimuli being used for cingulate gyrus stimulations and for excitation of the adjacent portions of the cortex. Blood pressure changes following cingulate stimulation were noted in 9 cases, the maximum rise being 60 mm. of Hg systolic pressure and the greatest fall being 20 mm. of Hg. Pulse changes occurred in 10 cases, varying from a rise of 40 points to a fall of 40 points per min. Respiratory effects of stimulation, occurring in a total of 4 cases, were marked by temporary apnea in 2 cases and an increased rate in 2 other cases, the maximum rise being 13 per min.
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