Advances in medical knowledge

Early and Medieval Periods (c500-1500)

Herbal Remedies: Many treatments were based on natural remedies, such as herbs and plants, which sometimes had positive effects.
Monastic Hospitals: Monks played a crucial role in providing health care, combining spiritual healing with an empirical approach which used observation and trial and error.
Galen: The works of ancient Greek physician, Galen, were rediscovered in the Middle Ages, and influenced medical thinking with his emphasis on the four humours.

Harvey’s Discovery of the Circulatory System: William Harvey’s work in 1628 provided the first accurate description of how blood circulates around the body, debunking Galen’s theory.
Paré and Surgery: Ambroise Paré contributed significantly to surgery by developing new techniques and advocating the use of ligatures during amputation instead of cauterisation.
Printing Press: The invention of the printing press allowed for the rapid spread of ideas and made medical knowledge more accessible.

Vaccination: Edward Jenner’s development of the smallpox vaccine in 1796 marked the start of preventive medicine.
Anaesthesia and Antiseptics: The introduction of anaesthesia and antiseptics revolutionised surgery, making it safer and less painful.
Koch’s Postulates: Robert Koch outlined specific criteria to establish a causative relationship between a microbe and a disease, advancing the germ theory.

Antibiotics: The discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming set the stage for the development of antibiotics, marking a major step forward in the treatment of bacterial infections.
Imaging Technology: Technological advances led to the introduction of X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans which revolutionised diagnostics.
Genomic Medicine: The Human Genome Project and advances in genetic research have allowed for personalised medicine and precise diagnostics based on a patient’s genetic makeup.

Medical knowledge has evolved from basic theories and practices towards increasingly sophisticated understanding.
Each period of history is characterised by unique medical advancements, dictated by technological developments and the understanding of the human body at that time.
Ongoing scientific research continues to deepen our understanding of health and medicine, leading to the development of innovative treatments and procedures.