Orbitoclast - lobotomy tools
1935-1967
The lobotomy was a surgical procedure to treat psychiatric patients. The Orbitoclast, a lobotomy tool, was hammered into the upper part of the eye socket about seven cm into the brain and wiggled around to destroy brain tissue. It was an imprecise tool for a gruesome procedure that caused horrible suffering and death. How many of today’s medical treatments will be added to the Museum of Failure in the future?
The most famous lobotomy patient was Rosemary Kennedy, President Kennedy’s sister. Her erratic behavior frustrated her parents, who expected all of their children to behave appropriately, be goal-oriented, and act competitively. Her father was worried that she would shame the family and possibly damage his political career. Though the procedure was a family secret, the family learned from its mistakes and founded the Special Olympics in honor of their sister Rosemary.
Additional info:
Psychcentral.com - The Surprising History of the Lobotomy