The World’s First Deep Brain Surgery Under Hypnosis: A New Frontier for Mind-Body Healing
05/10/25 09:04
The World’s First Deep Brain Surgery Under Hypnosis: A New Frontier for Mind-Body Healing
Can the mind replace anaesthesia? A groundbreaking medical case has shown that, under the right conditions, hypnosis can guide the brain through one of the most delicate procedures known to medicine — deep brain stimulation (DBS) — without general anaesthetic.
This historic moment doesn’t just belong to surgeons or neuroscientists. It also belongs to the field of hypnotherapy, which has long explored the mind’s ability to influence pain, healing, and awareness.
The Landmark Surgery
At Galilee Medical Center in Israel, a 71-year-old man with Parkinson’s disease underwent DBS — a complex procedure that involves implanting electrodes deep within the brain to control tremors. But unlike traditional surgeries that rely on anaesthetic drugs, this patient was guided into a deep hypnotic trance by clinical psychologist Dr. Udi Bonshtein.
Under hypnosis, the patient’s mind was transported to a serene beach in Thailand. Even as the surgeon drilled into his skull and inserted electrodes, he remained calm, pain-free, and fully cooperative — without a single drop of anaesthesia.
He later described the experience as “good,” while the medical team hailed it as a safe, effective, and completely drug-free approach to performing an otherwise invasive procedure.
What Makes This So Revolutionary?
- A New Role for Hypnosis in Medicine
This case demonstrates that hypnosis is far more than relaxation or suggestion therapy — it’s a powerful clinical tool capable of altering pain perception and physiological responses in real-time. - Conscious Cooperation During Surgery
DBS often requires the patient to be awake so doctors can fine-tune electrode placement. Using hypnosis allows for precise patient feedback — without the distortion caused by anaesthetic drugs or sedation. - Mind Over Medicine: A True Mind-Body Connection
Hypnosis bridges the gap between neurology and psychology. The procedure showed how focused mental states can actively influence the brain’s response to trauma and pain — a concept central to modern mind-body therapy. - Challenging Old Beliefs
For decades, hypnosis has been seen as “alternative.” But this breakthrough shows it can coexist with the most advanced medical technologies — not as a sideshow, but as a partner in healing.
The Science Behind Hypnosis and Pain Control
During hypnosis, the brain’s pain networks change how they interpret sensory signals. Studies show decreased activity in the somatosensory cortex and altered connectivity in areas responsible for attention and emotional regulation.
In practical terms:
- The patient remains aware, but detached from the sensation of pain.
- The body’s stress response is reduced.
- Healing and recovery are often improved due to lower physiological strain.
Ethical and Practical Considerations
While this case is inspiring, it’s important to note that:
- Procedures must always have medical oversight and consent.
- Hypnosis complements, not replaces, anaesthetic medicine.
What This Means for Hypnotherapy and Meta Hypnotherapy Clients
At Meta Hypnotherapy, we believe in the transformative potential of the human mind. This case reinforces what we see every day in our sessions — the mind can influence not just thoughts and feelings, but the body’s biological responses.
While few of us will face brain surgery, the same principles apply to:
- Managing chronic pain or migraines
- Overcoming phobias or trauma
- Reducing anxiety before medical or dental procedures
- Enhancing recovery after illness or injury
A Glimpse Into the Future of Healing
The world’s first deep brain surgery under hypnosis is more than a medical marvel — it’s a glimpse into a future where consciousness itself becomes a healing instrument.
As research continues, hypnosis may take its place not only in therapy rooms, but in hospitals, pain clinics, and surgical suites around the world.
At Meta Hypnotherapy, we’re proud to stand at the intersection of science and the subconscious — helping clients harness the same mind-body power that made this surgery possible.