[Spiritual surgery: an investigation]

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Alternative Medicine Research

Background:

• Psychic surgery is a popular media phenomenon lacking rigorous scientific evaluation.
• Concerns regarding fakery and deceit often surround psychic surgery claims.
• Limited scientific research exists on psychic surgery modalities.

Observation:

• Investigated one of Brazil's most famous psychic surgeons, João Teixeira de Farias.
• Studied 30 surgical interventions involving cutting, including skin incisions and corneal scraping.
• Observed patients undergoing history-taking, physical examination, and analysis of extracted materials.

Findings:

• The surgeon performed real incisions on skin and ocular epithelium without apparent anesthesia or antiseptics.
• Histopathology confirmed specimens were healthy tissues compatible with their origin.
• No post-operative infections were noted; however, no specific therapeutic effect was identified.

Implications:

• Surgical procedures are physically real, but their efficacy remains unevaluated.
• Findings suggest psychic surgery may not have a specific beneficial effect.
• Further research is necessary to understand this unorthodox treatment modality.