Medieval management of spinal injuries: parallels between Theodoric of Bologna and contemporary spine surgeons.
In recent decades there have been revolutionary technological advances in the management of traumatic spinal column injuries. Despite these advances, the basic principles of reduction and stabilization of vertebral fractures and dislocations remain similar to those proposed by ancient and medieval physicians. Theodoric of Bologna, in his text Chiurgica de Theodoric (ca. AD 1267), described an extracorporeal approach to the management of traumatic spinal column misalignments. Surprisingly, his techniques are still used in many instances by contemporary spine surgeons, despite the availability of a more advanced technological armamentarium than that existent in medieval times.
Deshaies
Eric M
EM
Department of Surgery, Albany Medical Center, Albany, New York 12208, USA.
DiRisio
Darryl
D
Popp
A John
AJ
D049673:History, 20th Century; D049691:History, Medieval; D006801:Humans; D007103:Immobilization; D007558:Italy; D009493:Neurosurgery / Q000266:history*; D019635:Neurosurgical Procedures / Q000266:history; D009984:Orthopedic Fixation Devices / Q000266:history; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures / Q000266:history; D009985:Orthopedics / Q000266:history*; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000266:history / Q000628:therapy; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000266:history / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy; D013124:Spinal Injuries / Q000266:history / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D014143:Traction / Q000266:history / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods