Legends of Surgery

Latest Episodes:

Episode 50 - John Hunter: Father of Scientific Surgery Sep 08, 2017

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In this, the 50th episode, we will cover the life and works of one of the most well known legends of surgery, John Hunter. His early life working at his brother William's anatomy school, his time in the military and rise to prominence will be discussed. Of course, there will be some interesting lesser known stories about him, and a few relevant tangents, including some background on bodysnatchers in 18th century London!

Episode 49 - Surgical Families: the Mayo Brothers Aug 25, 2017

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In this episode, we'll cover the story of Will and Charlie Mayo, the brothers that founded what is now known as the Mayo Clinic, a global leader in surgical health care. Their origins will be covered, including the natural disaster that led to the establishment of their practice in Rochester, Minnesota. As well, we'll take a look at how they practiced, and review how their example of collaboration, dedication to patients and humility led to their success.

Episode 48 - Better know a procedure: the Nissen Fundoplication Jul 28, 2017

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In this episode, we'll cover the development of the anti-reflux surgery known as the Nissen fundoplication. But there's so much more! The life of Dr. Rudolf Nissen is a fascinating one, and we'll cover his story, including his involvement with one of the most famous scientists of the 20th century, Albert Einstein.

Episode 47 - Dominique Jean Larrey, the first modern military surgeon Jul 14, 2017

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In this episode, we'll cover the life of Baron Dominique Jean Larrey, the surgeon in chief to Napoleon's Grand Army. He created the "flying ambulance" to rapidly evacuate soldiers from the field of battle, and is credited with developing the concept of triage. Larrey was also known for his humanitarian treatment of both his own soldiers and those of the enemy, which would actually save his life. Find out how in this episode!

Episode 46 - Sir Archibald McIndoe and the Guinea Pig Club Jun 30, 2017

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In this episode, we'll cover the life of the New Zealand born plastic surgeon Sir Archibald McIndoe and cover his pioneering work treating the members of the Royal Air Force that had been badly burned during the second World War. His patients found camaraderie in their mutual experience, so much so that they formed a group known as the Guinea Pig Club, which continued for 6 decades! Have a listen to this amazing story.

Episode 45 - Dr. Al-Zahrawi and surgery in the Islamic Medieval World Jun 16, 2017

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In this episode, we will discuss the impact of the physicians in the Arabic-Muslim Empire during a period sometimes referred to as the "Islamic Golden Age". In particular, the famous surgeon Al-Zahrawi will be covered, including his great work, the "Tasrif". We will cover the controversy over the extent of his contributions, and get into some details of his life and work.

Episode 44 - Dr. George Washington Crile and the Cleveland Clinic Jun 03, 2017

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In this episode, we'll cover the life of Dr. George Washington Crile, and American surgeon probably best known for the instruments that bear his name. We'll talk about his influential work on surgical shock, thyroid surgery and radical neck dissection as well as discuss his role in the founding of the Cleveland Clinic. There are also some interesting historical tidbits, including his role in the creation of the G-suit for pilots in World War 2!

Episode 43 - Dr. Harvey Cushing, Part 2: Making of a Legend May 19, 2017

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In this second episode on Dr. Harvey Cushing, we will cover his career, starting at Johns Hopkins, his move to the Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston and experiences during World War I. His work on the pituitary gland and intracranial tumours is covered, and we'll look at his lasting legacy.

Episode 42 - Dr. Harvey Cushing, Part 1: Origin Story May 05, 2017

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In this first of two episodes on the titan of neurosurgery, we'll look at his beginnings including his early life, medical school and training, as well as his influential trip to Europe. We'll also cover some of his early impacts on neurosurgery, and of course, take a few side trips of discovery.

Episode 41 - History of Rhinoplasty Apr 21, 2017

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In this episode, we trace the ancient history of the rhinoplasty, or nose repair, through ancient Egypt and India to Renaissance Europe and on to modern times. Along the way we'll meet some famous surgeons and learn about their contributions, as well as take a detour to find out about syphilis!

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