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Horace Wells / Anaesthetic
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Horace Wells / Anaesthetic
Horace Wells attempts his first anaesthetised operation in front of a public gallery, but does not administer enough gas & the patient cries out; the crowd jeers him
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Media ID 607704
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10110130
1844 Anaesthetic Anaesthetics Attempts Cries Gallery Horace Operation Patient Wells Administer Anaesthetised
EDITORS COMMENTS
This striking image captures the pivotal moment in medical history when Horace Wells, the American dentist and pioneer of anesthesia, attempted to perform the first operation under anesthesia in front of a curious and skeptical public gallery in Hartford, Connecticut, on November 30, 1844. Wells, who had discovered the pain-relieving effects of inhaled nitrous oxide gas during a tooth extraction, aimed to demonstrate its potential to revolutionize surgery. The scene in the photograph is tense as Wells, standing at the front, administers the gas to his patient, who lies on the operating table. The patient's expression is one of fear and trepidation, and as the gas takes effect, he cries out in pain. The crowd, which had gathered to witness the groundbreaking procedure, reacts with jeers and derision, their skepticism evident on their faces. Despite the setback, Wells remained undeterred and continued to advocate for the use of anesthesia in surgery. This event marked the beginning of the widespread acceptance of anesthesia in medical practice, leading to significant advancements in surgical procedures and patient care. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the courage and determination of Horace Wells and the critical role he played in the development of modern anesthesia. It also highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity and the importance of scientific discovery in advancing medical knowledge.
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