Watch Brain Surgery Live with Mental Floss

Brain Surgery Live with Mental Floss is a groundbreaking television show with an innovative approach to educational content. Produced and broadcast by National Geographic Channel on October 25th, 2015, the show followed the live brain surgery of a 25-year-old woman to raise awareness about the complexities of this practice and to promote neuroscience research.

The show was presented by renowned journalist and television host Bryant Gumbel and co-hosted by neuroscientist Cara Santa Maria, who provided scientific explanations and expert commentary. The surgical team was led by Dr. Rahul Jandial, a well-known neurosurgeon and expert in neuroplasticity. The aim of the show was to give viewers an inside look at the science behind brain surgery and the latest advancements in neuroscience research.

The show was shot inside an operating room located at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, California. The patient, a young woman named Jazz, had been diagnosed with epilepsy that had not responded to medication. The surgery was an invasive procedure called a craniotomy, where a part of the skull is removed to access the brain. The surgical team would then use a technique known as brain mapping to identify the parts of the brain responsible for Jazz's epileptic seizures, and carefully remove them.

The show began with Gumbel explaining the significance of the surgery, why it was being performed, and what the goal was. Santa Maria then delved into the science behind the brain, explaining its structure, function, and the different lobes. She also introduced the viewers to the different tools being used in the surgery, such as the drill, the suction tool, and the electrocorticography (ECOG) electrodes.

As the surgery began, viewers were given a close-up look of the brain and various brain regions, with the surgical team discussing the process as it unfolded. Dr. Jandial explained how the team was using brain mapping to identify the areas responsible for Jazz's seizures, and how they were ensuring that other parts of her brain were not affected during the procedure.

Throughout the show, Santa Maria provided in-depth analysis and insights on the anatomy and function of the brain, explaining which regions controlled different functions and how the removal of certain parts would affect Jazz's recovery. She also discussed the latest research in the field, including advancements in neuroplasticity and the potential for brain implants to aid those who suffer from epilepsy.

The show was not only informative but also very emotional. Viewers were able to follow Jazz's journey, from her initial consultation with Dr. Jandial to her recovery after the surgery. The team shared their thought process and plans for the surgery, including discussing potential complications and how they would handle them. The audience was able to see the challenges and risks that come with brain surgery and appreciate the incredible talent and dedication of the surgical team.

Overall, Brain Surgery Live with Mental Floss was a revolutionary show that pushed the boundaries of educational television. It was an engaging and informative look into the inner workings of the human brain, and the brave and innovative work of neuroscientists and neurosurgeons. The show provided viewers with insights into the implications of neuroscience research, how it could help people suffering from neurological conditions, and how it was opening up new doors for treatments and therapies that could change lives.

Brain Surgery Live with Mental Floss is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between October 25, 2015 and on National Geographic Channel