Operations that Made History

by Harold Ellis

A notable surgeon and charismatic teacher himself, Professor Ellis has brought together in Operations that Made History a fascinating collection of renowned surgical procedures, each one illustrating a different aspect of the history of surgery. The first section of the book looks at examples of surgical procedures which have made a major contribution to the history of surgery, such as the first successful gastrectomy, performed in Vienna over a hundred years ago by Theodor Billroth. Some operations, whilst in themselves minor procedures, have nevertheless had a massive impact on the history of surgery. These are grouped together in the second section. In the final part of the book, Professor Ellis focuses on the famous patient, such as Nelson and George IV. In surgery, as in fields of human activity, history is forgotten at our peril. Operations that Made History gives its readers a unique insight into a remarkable speciality, using the lessons of history to instruct as well as amuse.

144 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1996