Prior to the late 19th century, surgery was synonymous with infection. Operative mortality from sepsis exceeded 50%, and most surprisingly, the term “laudable pus” was mistaken for wound healing. This was until the antiseptic revolution, led by Joseph Lister in 1867, marking one of the most dramatic turning points in surgical history. Influenced by Pasteur’s germ theory, Lister introduced carbolic acid to sterilise instruments, wounds, and dressings. This began to transform surgical practice by reducing postoperative infections. These methods triggered a global shift toward aseptic technique, with autoclaves, sterile gowns, gloves, and masks. Antibiotics were only made available to the medical community until the 1940s, and further reduced infection-related mortality. However, overreliance would invite new challenges of resistance. Surgery today combines aseptic principles with antimicrobial coatings, laminar airflow theatres, and robust infection surveillance. This poster presentation outlines the evolution from the unsterile theatres of the 1800s to today’s operating suites. It highlights how each breakthrough helped reshape the concept, prevention and management of surgical infection. The journey from Lister’s original innovations to today’s sterile field is an enduring statement in the fight against infection, which remains central to ongoing surgical practice.