Can You Live Without a Cerebellum?

Even though the cerebellum has so many neurons and takes up so much space, it is possible to survive without it, and a few people have. There are nine known cases of cerebellar agenesis

, a condition where this structure never develops. ... Most scientists, and even regular people, know the basic function of the cerebellum.

What would happen without the cerebellum?

The cerebellum controls smooth movement, and when it does not develop, the rest of the brain must compensate, which it cannot do completely. The condition is not fatal on its own, but people born without a cerebellum experience severe developmental delays, language deficits, and neurological abnormalities.

Can you have your cerebellum removed?

That's where her cerebellum should be. It's the brain region critical for movement and coordination. And apparently, it's possible for a person to live without it. ... For example, surgeons have sometimes removed half the brain to stop severe recurring seizures in children.