Orthopedic surgery in ancient Egypt

Figures & data

Figure 1. Compound fracture of the forearm with unwrapped bark splints. From Smith (1908).

Figure 2. Compound fracture of the femur with wooden splints in situ. From Smith (1908).

Figure 3. The Catafalque scene from the tomb of Ipwy. Modified from Davies (1927).

Figure 4. Detail from the Catafalque scene from the tomb of Ipwy. Modified from Davies (1927).

Figure 5. Counting of hands and phalluses in Medinet Habu. From Breasted (1932).

Figure 6. A selection of hieroglyphs which may be confused with amputations.

Figure 7. A sketch of a scene suggested to depict an amputation of the lower arm. Modified from Newberry (1894) (plate XVI).

Figure 8. Some depictions of boys playing games. From the eastern half of the south wall in the tomb of Khety (Tomb 17, Beni Hasan). Modified from Newberry 1894 (plate XVI).

Smith GE. The most ancient splints. BMJ 1908: 732-4.

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Davies N. Two Ramesside tombs. Metropolitan museum of art, New York 1927.

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Breasted JH. The Edwin Smith Surgical Papyrus. University of Chicago Press, Chicago 1930.

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Newberry PE, Griffith FL, Fraser GW. Beni Hasan Part II. Egypt Exploration Fund; Archaeological Survey of Egypt, London 1894.

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