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RACS ASC 2025
Al-Zahrawi and the Foundations of Modern Plastic Surgery: Bridging Ancient and Modern Practice
Poster
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Poster

Disciplines

Surgical History

Presentation Description

Institution: Southern Adelaide Local Health Network - South Australia, Australia

Purpose: This presentation explores the life and legacy of Abu Al-Qasim Al-Zahrawi (936–1013 CE), also known as Albucasis, with a focus on his pioneering contributions to Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery during the Islamic Golden Age. Methodology: A historical and biographical literature search was conducted, with particular focus on Al-Zahrawi’s 30-volume medical encyclopaedia, Kitab al-Tasrif. Special attention was given to the 30th treatise, On Surgery and Instruments, which revolutionised surgical techniques and instrumentation. Results: Al-Zahrawi’s innovations included the development of over 200 surgical instruments, the introduction of catgut sutures for internal stitching, and meticulous preoperative planning using ink markings. His contributions to Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery included procedures for cleft lip repair, treatment of ectropion, gynecomastia, facial injuries, and nasal fractures, many of which align with modern principles. He emphasised the importance of anatomical precision and systematic wound management, ensuring functional and aesthetic outcomes. His works influenced European surgeons for centuries, establishing surgery as a respected medical discipline. Conclusion: Al-Zahrawi’s Kitab al-Tasrif bridged ancient and modern surgical practices, laying the groundwork for the evolution of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. His emphasis on anatomical precision, innovative techniques, and ethical care paved the way for many modern principles and techniques still used in practice today.
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Authors
Authors

Dr Kenneth Wills -