title: Ludwig Rehn: the first successful cardiorrhaphy.
abstract: The first successful suture of a wound of the heart was performed by Ludwig Rehn in 1896. This landmark operation--set against a background of widespread doubt with regard to its possibility and censure of its very contemplation--reversed the prevailing belief in the inviolability of the heart. It marks the beginning of cardiac surgery.
mesh_terms: D005858:Germany; D006335:Heart Injuries / Q000266:history* / Q000601:surgery; D049672:History, 19th Century; D006801:Humans; D013536:Suture Techniques / Q000266:history