What does trepanation mean?
Trepanation is the practice of making an opening in the skull, traditionally by drilling or scraping away bone. In prehistoric and early historical societies, it was performed for unclear reasons that may have included treating injuries, relieving pressure or symptoms of neurological illness, and, in some cultures, releasing or admitting spirits. Evidence of ancient trepanation has been found in skulls from many parts of the world, and some surviving patients evidently recovered after the procedure. Later surgeons used versions of the operation to treat skull injuries and neurological disorders. Today, the word appears in medical history, archaeology, anthropology, and discussions of earlier surgical practice, while more precise terms may describe individual modern operations. Trepanation is especially memorable because it shows how medical treatment and ritual belief can overlap in the history of surgery.
nounThe surgical procedure of making an opening or perforation in the skull, historically used to treat neurological conditions and, in some cultures, to release supposed trapped spirits.
- The operation of opening or perforating the skull, used historically as a medical or surgical practice and in some societies as a ritual intended to admit or release spirits.
"The archaeological report identified trepanation in several ancient skulls."
"The archaeological report documented trepanation in a prehistoric skull found in the region."
"In the historical novel, the healer warns that trepanation may save a patient's life but cannot undo the underlying injury."
The plural is used when referring to multiple separate operations or historical examples of the procedure.
"The exhibition compares trepanations performed in different societies and periods."
Long before modern neurosurgery, people drilled holes in living skulls—sometimes seeking medical relief and sometimes believing it would release a trapped spirit.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does trepanation come from?
Trepanation ultimately derives from Greek trypanon, meaning a borer or drill, from the verb trepein, meaning to turn or bore. It entered English through French forms associated with trepan, a drilling instrument, and the surgical operation. Related English words include trepan, trephine, and trephination, all reflecting the same tradition of boring or opening the skull.
How trepanation is actually used
The term is common in medical and archaeological discussion and is especially associated with historical trepanation. In modern surgery, more specific terms such as craniotomy may be preferred when describing a particular cranial operation.
Easily confused with trepanation
A trephine is the cutting or drilling instrument used to open the skull, whereas trepanation names the procedure itself.