February 10th , 1912
Joseph Lister, the pioneering surgeon known for his development of antiseptic surgical techniques, passed away on February 10, 1912, in Walmer, Kent, England.
Lister’s contributions to medicine revolutionized surgical practices and dramatically improved patient outcomes by significantly reducing the risk of postoperative infections. He introduced the concept of antiseptic surgery, advocating for the use of carbolic acid (phenol) as a disinfectant to sterilize surgical instruments and clean wounds.
Lister’s pioneering work was influenced by his time as a professor of surgery at the University of Glasgow and his tenure at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary. He later served as a professor of clinical surgery at the University of Edinburgh and continued to refine his antiseptic techniques throughout his career.
Lister’s legacy as a pioneer of surgery and antiseptic techniques continues to be celebrated in the field of medicine. His contributions laid the foundation for modern surgical practices and have saved countless lives by reducing the risk of infection during surgical procedures.
