THE EMERGENCE OF A MEDICAL SPECIALTY (WITH PARTICULAR REFERENCE TO NEUROSURGERY). PART II. NATURAL SCIENCE FACTOR

Abstract

The second part of this paper analyses the role of scientific factor in emergence of neurosurgery. It includes special diagnostic methods, surgical instruments and new operative approaches. Aseptics, antiseptics and anesthesia as well as topical diagnosis of neurological disorders are rooted in the progress of natural sciences. Such diagnostic methods as pneumovetriculography, pneumoencephalography, myelography, cerebral angiography and EEG were invented in 1910–1920-s. Cranioplastic craniotomy enabled to enlarge trepanation window. New surgical instruments (such as Gigli saw, de Martel electric trepan, electric suction, hemostatic clips, electrocoagulation etc.) and new surgical approaches to brain structures (transnasal, suboccipital, perforation of third ventrical floor etc.) reduced postoperative mortality and facilitated neurosurgery interventions.

Keywords

• history of neurosurgery
• instrumental diagnosis
• cranioplastic craniotomy
• intracranial hypertension
• decompressive craniotomy
• surgical instruments
• surgical approaches