Treatment of Gunshot Wounds to Spine During Late 19th Century.

Publication Title

World Neurosurg

Authors

Matthew Protas
Maia Schumacher, Seattle Science Foundation, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
Joe Iwanaga, Seattle Science Foundation, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
Emre Yilmaz, Seattle Science Foundation, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA; Swedish Neuroscience Institute, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA; Department of Trauma Surgery, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, GermanyFollow
Rod J Oskouian, Seattle Science Foundation, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA; Swedish Neuroscience Institute, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USAFollow
R Shane Tubbs, Department of Anatomical Sciences, St. George's University, Grenada, West Indies; Seattle Science Foundation, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-1-2018

Keywords

American Civil War; Crimean War; History, 19th Century; Humans; Military Medicine; Neurosurgical Procedures; Spinal Injuries; Treatment Outcome; Wounds, Gunshot

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The demand for neurosurgical procedures increased drastically in the late 19th century owing to advances in ballistics during the American Civil War and Crimean War.

METHODS AND RESULTS: Surgical care for a gunshot wound to the spine relied on skilled identification and removal of the fractured bone. Hemorrhage control and infection prevention were also imperative for improving survival rates.

CONCLUSIONS: Although new techniques were implemented, the mortality rate from spinal injuries during this period was staggering. Nevertheless, those 19th century procedural methods provided the basis for present-day treatment for spinal injury patients.

Area of Special Interest

Neurosciences (Brain & Spine)

Specialty/Research Institute

Neurosciences

Specialty/Research Institute

Surgery