2,500-year-old woman skull discovered, showing evidence she underwent jaw surgery

Archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery after examining the skull of a woman who died around 2,500 years ago, revealing that she survived a highly complex jaw surgery long before modern medicine existed.

Researchers estimate that the woman was between 25 and 30 years old at the time of her death. Her partially mummified remains were found preserved in ice inside a wooden coffin, which helped protect both her bones and soft tissue over centuries.

During a detailed CT scan conducted at Novosibirsk State University, scientists closely examined her jaw and remaining tissue. The analysis revealed that she had suffered a severe head injury that destroyed the joint on the right side of her jaw. Her ligaments were torn, and her lower jaw had been displaced beneath the skin.

Despite the seriousness of the injury, researchers found clear evidence that she underwent a complex surgical procedure that successfully restored jaw function, allowing her to eat and speak again.

The scan showed two small holes deliberately drilled into the jawbone during her lifetime, each surrounded by new bone growth—strong evidence that healing occurred after the operation. Traces of elastic material, believed to be horsehair or animal tendon, were also discovered inside the holes. Experts suggest these materials were used as a primitive surgical ligature to stabilise the jaw.

Further confirmation of the surgery’s success came from her teeth. Those on the injured side remained intact, while the teeth on the uninjured side showed significant wear, indicating long-term chewing and continued survival after the procedure.

Although the exact cause of her injury remains unknown, researchers believe it may have resulted from a fall from a horse or a significant height. It is also unclear how long she lived following the surgery.