The impact of the Western Front on Medicine

Question 1

The Thomas Splint:

Answer 1

Stopped joints moving and increased survival rates from 20 to 82%. Reduced infection from compound fractures.

Question 2

X-rays:

Answer 2

Developed in 1895, X-rays were used to diagnose issues before operations. But there were some problems: X-rays could not detect all problems, were fragile and overheat.

Question 3

Mobile X-rays:

Answer 3

6 operated on the front line, used to locate shrapnel and bullet wounds. Transported around in a truck and enabled soldiers to be treated more quickly.

Question 4

Blood Transfusions:

Answer 4

Blood loss = major problem. Blood transfusions used at Base Hospitals by a syringe and tube to transfer blood from patient to donor. Extended to CCS from 1917.

Question 5

Blood bank at Cambrai:

Answer 5

Adding Sodium Citrate allowed blood to be stored for longer. Blood was stored in glass bottles at a blood bank and used to treat wounded soldiers.

Question 6

Brain surgery:

Answer 6

Magnets used to remove metal fragments from the brain. Local anaesthetic.

Question 7

Plastic surgery:

Answer 7

Harold Gillies developed new techniques, skin drafts developed for grafts.