A brief history of electrical brain stimulation in humans

Abstract

The concept of cerebral localization originated from cerebral electrical stimulation. Pioneering experiments conducted by Fritsch and Hitzig on dogs, Bartholow on humans and David Ferrier on macaques in the 19th century led to the discovery of the primary motor cortex. Surgical treatment of epileptic patients began with electrical stimulation of the brain by Victor Horsley in 1886. Electrical stimulation of the brain during surgical treatment produced important results in terms of understanding of the cerebral cortex and focal epilepsies. In the 20th century, major developments were the electrocorticography work of Wilder Penfield in Montreal and the stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) work of Jean Talairach and Jean Bancaud in Paris. The evolution of cerebral electrical stimulation reflects a growing understanding of brain organization and plasticity. This historical perspective highlights how empirical observations have shaped current clinical protocols and research frontiers.