Modern surgical methods

Examples of modern surgical methods

Amputation and prosthetic limbs

What were the advantages of using artificial limbs made from metal?

They were lighter and easier to use - and also reveal advancements in modern medicine through the developments of better prosthetic limbs

What was James Edward Hanger?

He was a soldier who became an amputee during the American Civil War and developed prosthetic limbs

Why did Hanger develop prosthetic limbs?

His own prosthetic limbs was ill-fitting and painful, so he developed better ones which were able to bend at the knee and ankle using his expertise in engineering to help him

What did the government do about prosthetic limbs?

They commissioned Hanger to manufacture improved prosthetic limbs for other wounded soldiers

Which countries did Hanger design prosthetic limbs for?

The US, UK and France after WWI

What was shell shock?

A form of PTSD commonly experienced by soldiers

How many men had shell shock?

80,000 between 1914 and 1918

What was done to help people with shell shock?

A psychologist developed a talking cure to help soldiers come to terms with their experiences - they were also encouraged to take part in sports and craft activities

Who was the talking cure used for?

Soldiers with shell shock as well as in treating patients with mental illnesses