04/17/2026
Ancient humans indeed performed complex surgeries like trepanation, where a hole is drilled into the skull to treat head injuries or diseases. Archaeological findings show that people survived these operations, with some skulls displaying signs of healing around the trepanation site. This practice dates back to the Neolithic period, around 7,000 years ago, and was found in various cultures worldwide, including Europe, China, Russia, and Peru ¹ ² ³.
Trepanation involved removing a disc or section of bone from the skull without damaging the brain tissue underneath. Techniques used included scraping, grooving, and cutting, often with stone or metal tools. The procedure was likely performed for both medical and spiritual reasons, treating conditions like head injuries, brain tumors, and infections ¹ ².
The survival rate was surprisingly high, with some studies suggesting up to 75-83% survival rates among the Inca Empire. This ancient practice has influenced modern neurosurgery, with procedures like craniotomies and burr holes still used today
