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Trepanation in Ancient China
Leah Hobert1, Emanuela Binello1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
World Neurosurgery
|October 23, 2016
Summary
Ancient China practiced cranial surgery, known as trepanation, thousands of years ago. Archaeological and literary evidence challenges the belief that only traditional Chinese medicine was used for brain injuries.
Area of Science:
- Archaeological Anthropology
- History of Medicine
- Paleopathology
Background:
- Trepanation, a primitive form of craniotomy, has evidence across ancient civilizations globally.
- A common misconception suggests ancient China exclusively used traditional Chinese medicine for brain injuries, neglecting surgical interventions.
Observation:
- Thousands of trepanned skulls from the Neolithic period exist globally.
- Archaeological findings in China reveal numerous trepanned skulls with signs of healing, indicating patient survival.
- Chinese literature describes primitive neurosurgical procedures and legendary surgeons like Hua Tuo.
Findings:
- Trepanation was widely practiced in ancient China, contrary to previous beliefs.
- Evidence suggests successful cranial surgeries were performed for therapeutic and spiritual purposes.
- The lack of English translations and publications has obscured China's contributions to early neurosurgery.
Implications:
- This research corrects the historical record regarding ancient China's medical practices.
- It highlights the need for further investigation into cross-cultural neurosurgical techniques.
- Understanding ancient surgical interventions provides insights into early human health and beliefs.
