leucotome

[ loo-kuh-tohm ]

noun

, Surgery.

1. an instrument for dissecting the white matter of the brain, consisting of a cannula containing a slender rotating blade.

Word History and Origins

Origin of leucotome¹

First recorded in 1935–40; leuco- + -tome

Example Sentences

Next a thin, icepick-like leucotome was inserted under each eyelid, hammered home through the eye socket and into the brain.

From Time Magazine Archive

The bur holes permit passage of a leucotome, or lobotomy cannula, a hollow needle through which a loop of wire can be slipped.

From Time Magazine Archive

The leucotome is rotated through one complete circle, cutting a sphere or core of white matter in the pre-frontal area about ten millimetres in diameter.

From Time Magazine Archive