Surgery and Sensibility: A Historical Perspective

This chapter explores the evolution of surgical practices before antibiotics, highlighting Joseph Lister's pivotal role in advancing germ theory and antisepsis. It presents a mix of dark humor and fascinating anecdotes from Victorian surgery, notably focusing on Robert Liston's infamous methods and the bizarre extremes people resorted to for medical relief. Additionally, the discussion reflects on the challenges of presenting historical medical stories in the context of modern sensitivities on social media platforms.