History of osteosynthesis in the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Medical University of Gdansk, based on examination of surgical instruments withdrawn from the operating theatre

Abstract

Based on the analysis of surgical instruments withdrawn from the operating theatre, it was decided to briefly present the history of osteosynthesis in the orthopaedic department in Gdansk, Poland. Boxes with orthopaedic instruments withdrawn from the operating theatre were obtained. The instruments were grouped, numbered, photographed and catalogued. Not all obtained instruments were used in orthopaedics; the boxes contained several instruments typically used in other fields of surgery. Attempts have been made to divide orthopaedic instruments into several groups, depending on their use in bone fixation. Some specific instruments are used only in one method. The most interesting tools are discussed in detail, with attention to their features and role in shaping modern orthopaedics. Some of the obtained equipment could have been made in the Orthopaedic Workshop in the hospital. They are specific exhibits related to the development of orthopaedics in this hospital that required preservation.