The Leap of Medicine: From Superstition to Science
The Invention of the Stethoscope
In 1816, the appearance of the stethoscope marked the formal establishment of the diagnostic technique of “auscultation”. This invention enabled doctors to diagnose heart disease and other chest diseases more accurately, greatly improving the accuracy and efficiency of medical diagnosis. The appearance of the stethoscope was an important step for medicine to move from empiricism to scientific diagnosis.
The Introduction of Anesthesia and Asepsis
In 1846, inhalation anesthesia began to be used, bringing surgery into the painless era. Patients no longer had to endure severe pain, and doctors could perform surgical operations more delicately. In the same year, the concept of doctors washing their hands before surgery first appeared, becoming the originator of asepsis. These innovations greatly reduced the infection rate after surgery and saved countless lives.
The Birth of X-rays and CT
In 1895, the appearance of X-rays completely changed the way of medical diagnosis. For the first time, humans were able to understand the world inside the body without surgery. And in 1971, the birth of CT pushed this technology to a new height. CT scans are more detailed and comprehensive than X-rays, and have become one of the most important imaging examination methods in modern medicine.
The interweaving of absurdity and science
Electric shock therapy and electroconvulsive therapy
In the 17th century, electric shocks to the genitals were used to treat impotence, and this treatment was considered a scientific advancement at the time. However, in the eyes of modern medicine, this treatment is undoubtedly absurd. But the application of electroconvulsive therapy in mental treatment has gradually been recognized. In the 20th century, electroconvulsive therapy was found to be used to clear painful memories from the brain, bringing new hope to patients with post-traumatic stress disorder.