Divided visuo-spatial attention systems with total and anterior callosotomy.

Full Abstract

The role of the corpus callosum in the inter-hemispheric integration of the visuo-spatial attention system, was investigated in patients with a total callosotomy or with an anterior callosal section. Subjects produced simple reaction times (RTs) to visual targets shown to the left or right visual hemifield. Preceding the target by an interval of 500 ms, arrow cues predicting the target location were shown left and right of the point of ocular fixation. For a majority of total and anterior callosotomy patients, results with valid focused cues (both arrows pointing to the target location) and with divided-attention cues (arrows pointing away from fixation) did not differ and both conditions produced shorter RTs than with neutral cues (equal signs). In contrast, neurologically intact subjects showed equal RTs with divided-attention and neutral cues, whereas valid focused cues produced reduced RTs relative to neutral cues. These results indicate that most split-brains, in contrast to normal observers, are capable of directing their attention to left and right visual field locations simultaneously, and therefore that each cerebral hemisphere controls its own visuo-spatial attention mechanism.

Author information

Author/s: Arguin, M (M); Lassonde, M (M); Quattrini, A (A); Del Pesce, M (M); Foschi, N (N); Papo, I (I);

Affiliation: Département de Psychologie, Université de Montréal, Centre-ville, Canada. arguinm(-atsign-)psy.umontreal.ca

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Clinical Trial; Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: Neuropsychologia (Neuropsychologia), published in ENGLAND. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2000-; vol 38 (issue 3) : pp 283-91

Dates: Created 2000/03/08; Completed 2000/03/08; Revised 2009/11/11;

PMID: 10678694, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 11/11/2009, IMS Date: )

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