Trephination

Definition

Trephination is an ancient surgical procedure that involves drilling or scraping a hole into the skull. It was believed to treat various ailments by releasing evil spirits trapped in the head.

Analogy

Think of trephination like letting air out of an overinflated balloon. Just as you would release excess air to prevent the balloon from popping, ancient people believed they were releasing harmful spirits or pressures from the brain to restore health.

Related terms

Phrenology: A pseudoscientific theory suggesting that personality traits can be determined by the shape and size of various areas of the skull.

Lobotomy: A now largely discredited surgical procedure involving severing connections in the brain's prefrontal lobe, once used to treat mental illness.

Psychosurgery: The use of surgical procedures on certain areas of the brain to alleviate severe and otherwise untreatable mental conditions or behaviors.