New insights in the investigation of trepanations from the Carpathian Basin

Abstract The aim of this study is to describe four new cases trepanation from the Great Hungarian Plain and complement two other previously published with results 9 th 16 c. CE. Sex determination age-at-death estimation were performed using classical macromorphological methods. In certain cases, radiographic imaging, 3D scanning, radiocarbon dating also performed. Our fit formerly established understanding trepanations, a male majority signs trauma as accompanying symptoms. cause intervention was mostly therapeutic, i.e., trauma, in most cases. order simplify currently confusing nomenclature categories (complete–incomplete vs. surgical–symbolic), we propose use “trepanation” exclusively all forms intentional, non-violent removals three layers cranial vault. On hand, phenomena widely known Eastern Europe symbolic trepanations should be designated “cranioglyphs,” referring superficial interventions administered vault that do not penetrate bone. case data are insufficient properly categorize phenomenon at one refrain it, simply lesion intentional intervention. bring spotlight wide range early medieval Carpathian Basin, our team conducting several research projects, contribute better these traditions future.