Dictionary of Biological Psychology
(from Greek, trypanon: an auger) A trepan is a circular saw or drill bit that will cut a round hole. Such a device can be used to produce a hole in the SKULL—the act of trepanning—giving access to the brain.
A TREPHINE (or TREFINE) is a smaller version of a trepan: a fine, hollow, drill bit that will cut a circular hole in the skull. In ancient times, trepanning was used to liberate demons from the heads of individuals presumably suffering from some disorder. Skulls from, for example, Inca peoples in South America have been found showing evidence of trepanning.
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