麻豆约拍

Deep in the centre of the brain lies a small area of tissue called the pineal gland, which helps to regulate the body鈥檚 circadian rhythm.

In some cases, small cysts can form there - though they鈥檙e usually completely benign.

Some people, though, believe they鈥檙e to blame for debilitating symptoms that stop them from living a normal life, and choose to undergo a controversial new operation to remove them - even crowdfunding the costs themselves.

The Brain Op Controversy investigates the debate surrounding the procedure to try to unravel the mysteries of the least understood organ in the body.

Health correspondent Matthew Hill speaks to patients who have undergone the operation, the surgeons that have carried them out, and members of the medical community who say there is little evidence the procedures should take place.

Presented by Matthew Hill
Produced by Dan Welsh and Lyndon Jones