Trepanation

From BMEzine Encyclopedia

The creation of a hole in the skull to enhance brain function.

To over-simplify, trepanation works under the theory that by creating a hole in the skull, brain blood volume is changed, and brain function is enhanced, creating a "permanent high" or enlightenment of sort. While trepanation has a number of very convincing advocates, the vast majority—including many people who have gone through the procedure—hold that it is primarily a placebo effect.

You can learn much more about trepanation at the homepage of the International Trepanation Advocacy Group at trepan.com.