title: Sir Arbuthnot Lane, chronic intestinal stasis, and autointoxication.
abstract: In the early 1900s, a theory that constipation (stasis) led to systemic dysfunction became popular, Sir Arbuthnot Lane was largely responsible for the popularity of this theory, which was constructed entirely on unfounded hypotheses. As a result, colon bypass or colectomy was done for indications ranging from lassitude to epilepsy. The theory was accepted--although disputed--until the clinical futility of radical surgery was recognized. The favorable acceptance of stasis in its time exemplifies the dangers of medical practice by hypothesis.
mesh_terms: D002908:Chronic Disease; D003108:Colonic Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000266:history* / Q000601:surgery; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D008131:London; D014118:Toxins, Biological / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D014118:Toxins, Biological