Scalpel and Probe

Scalpel and Probe

This Laundy scalpel and probe were the surgical instruments used by Dr. John Collins Warren at the first public operation under ether at the Massachusetts General Hospital on October 16, 1846. Dr. Warren presented the instruments along with his card to photographer Josiah J. Hawes, in gratitude for recording some of the earliest anesthesia operations. According to an anecdote by Albert N. Blodgett at Ether Day on October 16, 1906, "At the time of the first operation Mr. Hawes was invited to be present for the purpose of photographing the scene of the operation. He was, however, unfortunately, not accustomed to the sight of blood, became nauseated and was obliged to leave the amphitheater with the picture still untaken. At the conclusion of the operation, which had been entirely successful and had demonstrated the efficiency of ether, Dr. Warren sought out Mr. Hawes and presented him with the scalpel and probe used at the operation, together with his card."

The Laundy scalpel and probe used by Dr. John Collins Warren at the first public operation employing ether anesthesia at the Massachusetts General Hospital on October 16, 1846

Hawes, Josiah Johnson, 1808-1901

1846

Artifact Collection [uncataloged]

1 image

Color Photograph

E2003.1.17

On loan from E. R. Squibb & Sons to the Boston Medical Library