Stone Age Brain Surgery?

"Did Stone Age people conduct brain surgery? Medical historian Ira Rutkow points to evidence that suggests they did.

"There have been many instances of skulls that have been found dating back to Neolithic times that have grooves in them where portions of the skull have been removed. And it's evident if you look at these skulls, that this was all done by hand," Rutkow says.

Click on the link below for an interesting history of surgery:

Empire of the Scalpel

Research In Support Of Surgery Is Thin, But - - -

"Professor Ian Harris takes us on a brilliant journey of scientific discovery, uncovering the true heart of skeptical inquiry via an analysis of common orthopaedic surgical procedures and other medical interventions that have been shown through clinical trials to be no more effective than placebo."

The video below is an extensive expose of a major problem in surgery, especially in orthopedics: lack of randomized, controlled trials (RCTs). However, while this analysis is from a skeptical view, skepticism should also be used by the individual regarding a serious decision regarding surgery. There are many times when the decision to have surgery IS rational and valid. I have had many orthopedic surgeries that were successful and if I didn't make the decision for surgery the quality of my life would have been adversely affected. In each case, I was patient and did the appropriate physical therapy (I am a physical therapist) without success. In other words, it is important for the individual to take the appropriate steps to maximize the chances that the problem at hand is not self-limiting and, thus, making the choice for surgery wise.

Click on the link below:

Surgery: the Ultimate Placebo