In William S. Burroughs' "Naked Lunch," the narrator presents a surgical operation that is seldom witnessed, emphasizing its lack of medical value. This highlights the absurdity and surrealism in the novel, as the operation seems to have no clear purpose, whether practical or artistic. It reflects a critique of both medical practices and societal norms regarding health and healing.

The narrator speculates that the operation might have originated as an artistic endeavor, underscoring the theme of art versus utility. Burroughs suggests that some acts, while seemingly senseless, are a form of expression, pushing readers to question conventional understandings of purpose and meaning in both art and life.