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.

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.