The Maya performed complex brain surgeries using obsidian glass blades

History
The Maya performed complex brain surgeries using obsidian glass blades

Ancient Maya surgeons successfully performed trepanation, a delicate procedure involving drilling into the human skull using incredibly sharp obsidian blades to treat head trauma and neurological ailments.

Maya healers practiced advanced cranial surgery known as trepanation as early as 400 BCE. Using volcanic obsidian glass blades, which are significantly sharper than modern steel scalpels, they carefully removed sections of the skull to relieve pressure from injuries.

There's more to this story — open the app to keep reading.

Continue Reading in App
1 more paragraphs · plus a 4-question quiz
Open in App

Get the full experience

Download Facts A Day