The Century of the Surgeon by Jürgen Thorwald

The Century of the Surgeon by Jürgen Thorwald

In The Century of the Surgeon, Jürgen Thorwald takes readers through the fascinating and brutal evolution of 19th-century surgery. From primitive tools like saws and iron forceps to the breakthrough discoveries of anesthesia and microbiology, the book reveals the struggles surgeons faced in an era where medical advancements were often met with skepticism. The author delves into the history of gas anesthetics and the tragic story of a surgeon who succumbed to the ridicule of his peers. Thorwald masterfully portrays how pioneers in medicine overcame the stubbornness of the establishment, culminating in the first-ever heart surgery performed by Dr. Ludwig Rehn, a groundbreaking moment in medical history.

Why You'll Love This Book

Thorwald's detailed account of the painful, yet crucial, advancements in surgery during the 19th century provides a gripping narrative of human ingenuity against the odds. For readers with a fascination for medical history, this book offers not just a glimpse into the past but a deeper understanding of how far surgery has come. The vivid storytelling brings to life the courage and resilience of early surgeons who paved the way for modern medical miracles.