The Butchering Art
The Butchering Art by Lindsey Fitzharris is a captivating and informative book that takes readers on a journey through the transformation of Victorian medicine, focusing on the life and work of one of the era's most prominent surgeons, Joseph Lister. Fitzharris, who has a PhD in the history of science and medicine, brings her expertise to the table to provide a detailed and engaging account of the gruesome and often brutal world of surgery in the 19th century.
In the introduction, Fitzharris sets the scene by describing the horrific conditions in which surgery was carried out in the mid-1800s. Surgeons, who were often viewed as little more than butchers, operated in filthy, crowded theaters with no regard for hygiene or the well-being of their patients. The mortality rate for surgical procedures was shockingly high, with many patients dying from infection or other complications long after leaving the operating table.
Fitzharris then introduces us to Joseph Lister, a pioneering surgeon who revolutionized the field of surgery by advocating for the use of antiseptics to prevent infection. Lister's ideas were met with skepticism and even ridicule by his peers, but he persevered, conducting experiments and refining his techniques until he was able to drastically reduce the number of deaths caused by surgery.
Through her meticulous research and engaging prose, Fitzharris brings to life the fascinating world of Victorian surgery and the incredible achievements of Joseph Lister. Among the best books on general surgery, The Butchering Art is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of medicine, the evolution of surgical practices, and the triumph of human ingenuity in the face of adversity.
Author: Lindsey Fitzharris
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Butchering-Art-Transform-Victorian-Medicine/dp/0374537968/
Ratings: 4.8 out of 5 stars (from 3390 reviews)
Best Sellers Rank:#15,553 in Books
#6 in General Surgery
#23 in History of Medicine (Books)
#47 in Medical Professional Biographies
