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Entering the ancient world of medicine: What is the real story behind trepanation?
Trepanation, or craniotomy, is an ancient and controversial surgical procedure that involves drilling holes in the human skull to relieve pressure or treat disease.
In medical history, trepanation is one of the oldest surgical procedures, dating back 7,000 to 10,000 years ago. Archaeological evidence shows that many skulls with obvious cranial openings have been found in Neolithic remains, and signs of healing in these skulls indicate that a significant number of patients survived after surgery. This surgery is often considered a specific way of understanding mental illness or head trauma at the time, as many cultures believed that drilling could release evil spirits from the body.
The history of trepanation spans many cultures around the world, especially in the Andean civilization of ancient America, Africa, and medieval Europe. In modern times, although this technique has undergone significant advancements and is performed in a more rigorous medical manner, its original purpose has not completely disappeared.
Craniotomy in ancient times: intertwined culture and beliefs
Early trepanation surgery was closely linked to spiritual beliefs. In many cultures, this surgery is seen as a ritual to release sinful spirits as a way to treat mental illness or severe head trauma. The ancient Peruvian civilization even believed that the spiritual state of the body was closely related to the needs of the soul, so it used craniotomy to help the soul find harmony with the body.
In some African societies, trepanation is not only for treatment, but is often a cultural ritual that symbolizes the transformation and rebirth of life.
In fact, traces of craniotomy can be found in skeletons from multiple continents, including 40% of 40 skeletons found in France that had traces of trepanation, and Mayan cultural sites in the Americas. Similar practices are also found in . This shows the breadth and diversity of the technology.
The evolution of surgical tools
Over time, the tools used for craniotomy have become more sophisticated. Early surgeries often used sharp knives made of stone or metal, but as technology advanced, surgeons began to use more advanced tools, such as specialized rotary knives, that allowed for more precise surgery. These changes not only improve surgical safety but also reduce patient suffering.
In many traditional cultures, craniotomy is often regarded as a noble medical art, requiring considerable skill and trust in the doctor.
Craniotomy in modern medicine
Today, the practice of trepanation has evolved into a technique called craniotomy. This surgery, which is performed after imaging studies, allows doctors to more accurately determine the cause and use better post-operative care to avoid related infections.
However, this does not change people's discussion on trepanation, especially when some humans today pursue "self-transcendence". Some people may even choose to voluntarily undergo such surgeries in the hope of gaining so-called psychological or spiritual enhancements.
Continuing myths and research
Although contemporary medicine has a clear definition and technology of trepanation, at the same time, legends and myths about this ancient technology still persist. Countless literature has attempted to explain the cultural background of this practice and its healing myths, but to date there has been a lack of solid scientific basis for its true efficacy.
Even so, the use of craniotomy throughout history reveals human wisdom and the spirit of exploration of life.
The ancients’ understanding and practice of craniotomy reflected philosophical thinking about life and death and shaped medical practices in a changing culture. Although modern medicine has greatly improved the safety and effectiveness of surgery, should we once again explore the culture and beliefs behind ancient techniques?
