In a comparative examination of the effects on brain function of three anaesthetic methods--halothane anaesthesia, neuroleptanalgesia and combined acupuncture-analgesia--typical and characteristic changes in brain metabolism, brain electrical activity or psychological test parameters were observed with each method. Brain function is understood here as complex of consciousness and pain. Loss of consciousness is defined as the suspension of intelligence quotient with characteristic changes of brain activity and metabolism. Pain is defined as the central perception of senses evoked by peripheral sensors. Loss of consciousness is only the evident and monotone finishing result of different effects of the anaesthetic methods on brain function. In using combined acupuncture analgesia a hypalgetic method is introduced to the anaesthetists armamentarium. Possible mode of action are discussed. In place of the name acupuncture-analgesia ther term electrohypalgesia is recommended.