Cranial Trephination Surgery in Ancient Times and Archaeological Remains in Israel

Cranial trephination, one of the earliest documented surgical procedures, reveals sophisticated medical practices and ritual beliefs in ancient Israel. This study demonstrates the persistence of both circular and rectangular techniques from the Neolithic to early medieval periods, supported by archaeological evidence from sites like Jericho and Lachish. Textual sources, including the Talmudic Corpus and works by Hippocrates and Galen, highlight motivations ranging from relieving intracranial pressure to expelling spirits, showcasing iterative refinement in surgical instruments and understanding of head injuries. The research situates trephination at the intersection of empirical medicine, ritual, and intercultural transmission, advancing our knowledge of ancient neurosurgery in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Dvorjetski, E. (2026). Cranial Trephination Surgery in Ancient Times and Archaeological Remains in Israel. Journal of Medical Research and Clinical Reviews. https://doi.org/10.67335/3070-6238.1013