How to Use Trepanation in Brain Surgery

Trepanation is a surgical procedure that involves the drilling of a hole into the skull. It is generally only used in the most extreme of medical emergencies, such as a subdural or epidural hematoma. Some, however, also believe it can be used as a non-essential surgery to treat such things as depression or migraines.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Licensed medical doctor

Use Trepanation to Treat Serious Brain Injuries

1. Know what kinds of conditions or afflictions trepanation can be used to treat and the difference between the procedures and how they work. Trepanation to treat migraines is very different from trepanation surgery for a hematoma.

2. Understand that for migraines and other non-essential procedures, trepanation is used to increase blood flow to the brain, which is thought to increase brain capacity and cure migraine pain.

3. Realize that in emergency trepanation surgery, blood vessels are damaged below the skull, and trepanation is necessary to reach the damage and fix the problem.

4. Know the difference between a subdural and an epidural hematoma. Subdural and epidural refer to the areas below and above the dura mater, a tough, protective layer around the brain. An epidural hematoma is the buildup of blood between the dura mater and the skull. A subdural hematoma is the buildup of blood between the dura mater and the brain itself. Both are usually caused by severe head trauma, and both are very serious and must be treated immediately.

5. Talk to your doctor and find out if you need or could benefit from trepanation. Let him or her know why you are considering trepanation and find out what other options may be available to you.

6. Schedule an appointment with a licensed medical doctor, in an accredited medical facility, to undergo trepanation.

7. Use the Essential Surgical Care Manual to learn more about what is involved in the procedure of trepanation (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Trepanation can be an expensive procedure and is rarely covered by health insurance.
• Trepanation should only be performed by, and at the advice of, a licensed medical doctor. Self-trepanation is very popular in some circles, but it is also extremely dangerous.
• Trepanation carries with it a high risk of infection and brain damage, both during and after the surgery.
• If you develop an infection or suffer a head injury, see a doctor immediately.

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