"Healing a Divided Nation" Topic

"The Civil War marked the beginning of modern advancements in medicine that were generated in response to the new weapons technologies that created a wholesale mechanical slaughter.

The medical community of the Civil War achieved an outstanding record for survival rates from disease and wounds. They designed, built, and operated revolutionary new hospitals. They served as the medical directors of huge armies and completely reorganized the medical corps. They initiated programs and research and left a legacy of skill and honor…"

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Armand

More men died of disease in that war than from wounds.

Several weeks ago, I met with my surgeon to discuss an upcoming operation. In our conversation I mentioned my interest in the ACW and he in turn told me his hobby was studying 19th Century surgery. His favourite tale was a "record 300% mortality rate from one operation".

The poor soul having his leg amputated died of sepsis. The surgeon's assistant holding the leg had several fingers cut off in the course of the rushed surgery and also passed away from sepsis. Finally, an observer to the operation was so shocked at the site he went into cardiac arrest with fatal results.

After being wheeled into the operating room, just before being put under I gently reminded my surgeon we didn't need to break any records.

I'm still here.

Congratulations!

Many of the 1,000 man regiments we down to half strength from diseases before they ever entered combat.

Thanks.

Armand