Trepanning
Trepanning', also known as trepanation, trephination, trephining, or making a burr hole, is a surgical intervention in which a hole is drilled or scraped into the human skull. The procedure's name derives from the Old French, through Medieval Latin trepanum, from the Greek trúpanon, literally meaning "borer" or "auger".
Purpose
The intentional perforation of the cranium exposes the dura mater to treat health problems related to intracranial diseases or to release pressured blood buildup from an injury. Trepanning may also refer to any "burr" hole created through other body surfaces, including nail beds.
Instrumentation
A trephine is an instrument used for cutting out a round piece of skull bone. The primary use of a trephine is to relieve pressure beneath a surface, often necessitated by the accumulation of blood (hematoma) or the presence of other fluids.
Historical Context
Trepanning is one of the oldest surgical procedures, evidenced by archaeological findings where skulls from the Neolithic period show signs of trepanation. It was believed to treat conditions ranging from epilepsy, headaches, and mental disorders to the release of evil spirits.
Modern Usage
In contemporary medicine, trepanning is performed with precision instruments, including electric drills and specialized trephines, to address specific medical conditions such as subdural hematoma, epidural hematoma, and to perform cranial surgery for various purposes.
Related Terms
- Craniotomy: A surgical operation in which a bone flap is temporarily removed from the skull to access the brain.
- Craniectomy: The removal of a portion of the skull without replacing it.
- Neurosurgery: The medical specialty concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, surgical treatment, and rehabilitation of disorders affecting any portion of the nervous system.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Trepanning
- Wikipedia's article - Trepanning
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