Baron Dominique-Jean Larrey (1766–1842): innovator of the triage

Abstract

Background

During times of war, it is common for some of the most valiant physicians to practice their skills at the battlefields. Only few of them, however, manage to excel. Among those physicians who seemed like the battlefield was their natural environment, was the military surgeon of the French army, Baron Dominique Jean Larrey (1766–1842). He studied medicine and served in the French Navy. Baron Larrey was one of the most significant medical innovators.

Methods

International literature was digitally searched.

Discussion

Larrey optimized a variety of procedures, even early neurosurgical ones. He also wrote medical treatises and most importantly invented the world famous ‘flying ambulance’. During his 53-year service in the army he became the symbol of protection of the French warrior. That is why he was widely known as the ‘protector of the soldier’. Nevertheless, his most eminent invention was the formation of the new ‘triage’ method. Due to Larrey’s priceless impact in the domain of surgical innovation, a notable NATO award was created that is named after him.

Conclusion

All references presented describe clearly Baron Larrey’s contribution to medicine. His innovations in the sphere of the medical science renovated radically the medical ideas of his era.

Keywords:

• Pierre-Joseph desault
• flying ambulance
• Field-Marshal gebhardt von blücher
• sacroiliitis
• battlefield

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The authors confirm that the data supporting the findings of this study are available within the article.