Catlin

Boxed Amputation Knife

Finger Saw

Bistoury Cache

Bistoury Cache with Ebony Handle made by Pratt, London, 1852-5.

Metal surgical knife with hidden blade and scissor type action. Very sharp outer blade.

Sir Astley Cooper designed this type of instrument particularly for surgical treatment of hernia. It could also have been used for lithotomy. The instrument was inserted into the body with blades closed. When in correct position, the screw in handle moves inner blade outward to make a precise cut once safely within the body.

(1990:002)

Teale's Gorget

Teale's Probe-Pointed Gorget made by Savigny, 1840s.

Metal pointed half tubular knife with a cross-hatched ebony handle. Has oblique bend where the handle attaches to blade and a raised 'sight' type protuberance at the end of the sharp triangular tip.

Used during Lithotomy, for the removal of bladderstones. This is a sharp gorget which cuts into the perineum, passing into the body to align with the sound. The extruding piece at the tip of the blade fits into the groove in the curve of the sound (see example of male urethral sound, 1990:209). The fingers or forceps could then slide down the gorget channel towards the stone which was then pulled into the channel and out of the body. See also Cheselden's Gorget.

(1990:008)

Amputation Knife

Amputation Knife in Wooden Box made by Down Brothers, London. Very sharp, silver-plated, metal amputation knife in narrow wooden box with brass fittings.

Label on box says 'Amputation Knives Theatre'.

Donated By: Mr D O'Beirne

(2004:001)

Amputation Saw

Ebony Handled Amputation Saw made by Maw & Sons, 1830s.

Black hook handled saw with tapering length blade, ending in a downward pointing 'S' shape.

Pre-antiseptic saw with open ebony handle.

(1990:090)

Catlin

Double edged knife marked with ebony handle with carved outer edging pattern . Probably made by Simpson, 19th Century.

A smaller double edged amputation knife for cutting between two bones.

(1990:091)

Amputation Knife

Broad Backed Amputation Knife with Checked and Grooved Ivory Handle. Made by Laundy, c. 1800.

Known as a broad backed amputation knife, because of its heavy spine narrowing into fine edged blade. This was the preferred style of blade for amputation by Astley Cooper (over the Liston style knives). Laundy were instrument makers with a workshop in St Thomas' Street, opposite Guy's Hospital, from 1783 to 1819.

(1990:092)

Boxed Knife

Amputation Knife in Silk Lined Burgundy Leather Case. Made by Maw & Son, London, early to mid 19th Century.

Maw and son were instrument makers based in the city of London from 1807 TO 1901.

(1990:093)

Finger Saw

Finger Saw with Chequered Grip Ebony Handle, c. 1835.

Small fine toothed saw with cross hatched/chequered ebony handle.

(1990:095)

Surgical Hook

Surgical Hook with Ebony Handle made by Matthews, c. 1860.

Small hook instrument with smooth black wood handle inscribed 'MATTHEWS'.

Prof H Ellis described this type of instrument as a "a very useful, all purpose surgical hook". Made by Matthews, instrument maker in operation from 1846 to 1901.

(1990:096)

Tweezers

Surgical Tweezers, 19th Century.

Long fine point steel tweezers, with taper shape at tip where arms join.

(1990:097)

Skin Grafting Scissors

Bryant's Skin Grafting Scissors, c. 1872.

Small fine, sharp metal blade scissors with additional metal unit to cutting edges.

Free skin grafting where the graft was completely detached from the donor area was first shown to be feasible by the Swiss Surgeon, Reverdein, in 1869. His method of full thickness pinch grafting was quickly adopted in this country and by 1870 both Guy's and St Thomas' surgeons were using the technique.These Skin Grafting Scissors were designed in 1872 by Thomas Bryant of Guy's to lift a small pinch of skin before cutting it free. Between 1870 and 1880, many papers were published on free skin grafting, the most important being that by Karl Thiersch in 1874 describing the split skin graft. A modification of this method is the most widely used technique today. Another great advance in skin grafting was the development of the tubed pedicle graft during the First World War.

Loaned By: Wellcome Institute

(1990:123)

Amputation Kit

Full Amputation Set in Red Velvet Lined Box, c. 1825. Mahogany red velvet lined box containing a full selection of surgical instruments.

Pre Listerian case: Tracheotomy tube, tourniquet, bullet forceps, urethral probes, gum elastic catheters, coude catheters, brush, probeng (stick with sponge). Gum elastic catheters were gum coated and therefore were flexible/maleable. Coude catheters have a curve and are named after the French word for 'elbow'. The probeng is a stick with small real sponge attached to help remove obstructions caught in the throat, such as swallowed coins. This interestingly named instrument was used for inserting into the oesophagus, and to apply medication. The probeng was invented by Welsh judge W. Rumsy (1584-1660).

(1990:235)

Amputation Knife

Curved Amputation Knife. Curved metal blade with cutting edge on the inside curve with wooden handle, c. 1780.

Similar to one in painting of an operation in the men's theatre at St Thomas'. Used for the "tour de maitre" or "tour de force" circular cut of skin and muscle. The incision was done in one circular motion as quickly as possible. It was followed by sawing through the bone.

Donated By: Lord Brock (info. Mr. Jackson)

(1990:129)

Bow Saw

Amputation Saw made by Leseur, with bow frame, similar in design to a hack saw. C. 1780.

Similar style of saw to that in the anonymous painting of the Male Operating Theatre of St Thomas' Hospital circa 1774.

Donated By: Lord Brock (info Mr Jackson)

(1990:130)

Hinged Saw

Amputation Saw with Hinged Spine Made by Evans and Co. London, c. 1874. Saw with fine blade and teeth, hinged spine and ebony handle.

Spine stayed in place initially, to reinforce the blade. It could then be swung by the surgeon upward to allow the last deeper cut when sawing the bone.Evans and Co were London Surgical instrument makers from 1676 to 1874.

(1990:131)

Cheselden's Gorget

Cheselden Gorget, late 18th century.

Metal shoe horn shaped instrument. One piece of metal bent into an angle circa a third of length. Handle is simple and flat metal. Instrument length is curved concavely, a smooth metal channel ending in a point.

Maker's mark of a three point crown mark with irregular five line star beneath it stamped on the instrument's handle. A Cheselden Gorget was held in the left hand. When handle is held, length is in correct alignment, the handle is at a 225 degree angle ie to be held in left hand, while other instruments are used in right hand, to allow clear visual access and perhaps a more comfortable holding position than a normal gorget (see also object number 1990:206). Hampton Weekes' 1801 -1803 letters contain reference to blunt gorgets showing that the end tips were varied.

Donated By: St Thomas' Hospital

(1990:210)

Lithorite

Lithorite. Hollow metal rod with loop handle. Divides into three at tip. C. 1850.

Professor Ellis: Instrument was used to remove stones from the bladder. When a stone is found, the three clasps at the end could grasp the stone which was then removed from the bladder.

Donated By: St Thomas' Hospital

(1990:211)

Forceps

Metal forceps with grooved head and rounded tips.

Part of an Anonymous Donation of 20th century instruments, object numbers (1990:215-227 inclusive).

(1990:224)

Forceps

Metal forceps joined at one end and extended to form a prong. Slightly angled with grooved tips.

Part of an Anonymous Donation of 20th century instruments, object numbers (1990:215-227 inclusive).

(1990:225)

Sinus Forceps

Sinus Forceps. Metal scissors with curved cutting edge.

Part of an Anonymous Donation of 20th century instruments, object numbers (1990:215-227 inclusive). For use down a narrow tube such as a sinus. Used for probing wounds or inserting a pack.

(1990:226)

Ear Forceps

c.1950

Ear Forceps.Scissor-shaped forceps, angled at 45 degrees. One clasp is fixed, the other moves. C. 1950.

Nurses state that these are used for ears. Part of an Anonymous Donation of 20th century instruments, object numbers (1990:215-227 inclusive).

(1990:227)

Trephining Set

All Metal Trephining Set made by J. Pohl/Mossinger. Steel trephining set with trephine, knives etc. C. 1940s/50s.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:072MB)

Bullet Probe

Bullet Probe or Sound made by Down Brothers. All in one piece circular section solid metal handle with long fine rod shaft with an oblique angle to tip. C. 1850.

These instruments have a long shaft and fine but strong section, usually to insert into the body to follow bullet direction and still be easily removed.

(1990:005)

Trocar & Cannulae Box

Surgical Box Containing Three Graded Trocar and Cannulae, c. 1860s. Leather-covered wooden box with red velvet/silk lining.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:083MB)

Bone Shears

Heavy Chrome Bone Shears made by Weiss, London

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:060MB)

Liston Knife

Medium Amputation Knife made by W & H Hutchinson, Sheffield. Steel-bladed Liston amputation knife with ebony cross-hatched handle, c. 1860.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:062MB)

Surgical Knives

Wooden Box Of Two Surgical Knives made by J Weiss & Son Ltd, 287 Oxford Street, London.

Rectangular, long wooden box containing two steel-bladed/handled surgical knives.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:063MB(a,b))

Silkworm Ligatures

Silk-worm gut ligatures in plastic tube with metal screw lid. Ligatures tied to two black inserts. Faded brown label with green text.

Label reads: "Sterilex / Regd / Silk-Worm Gut Ligatures / 12-inch / (medium). / London"

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:069MB)

Cranial Drill

Cranial Drill, Brace and Two Drill Bits Allen & Hanbury's Ltd, London, c. 1950s.

Silver plated/e.p.n.s, all metal heavy drill brace with large grip section and shiny round top knob handle. Drill bit (b) in position within the dril. Drill bit (c) is separate from brace and has two sections. Spare bit may not be for this drill but is typical of the type used. This bit is a spindle with cog teeth at one end and a 25mm depth drill section of six blades at the other.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:071MB(a,b,c))

Cut Throat Razor

Cut Throat Razor made by Christopher Johnson, Sheffield, c. 1900. Folding "cut throat" razor in long rectangular blue cardboard two part case. Possibly steel.

Box has an ancient look due to outward deterioration but razor is sound. "A standard razor, to shave the body prior to operating". Professor H. Ellis 1999. Top of case inscribed with flag and the Maker's name and order of decorative lines around text. Razor is marked "C.J" for Maker Christopher Johnson. Blade has marks of deterioration where has been used previously.

Donated By: Royal College of Obstetricians

(1993:015)

Roman Instrument Roll

Replica AD50 Hessian Roll for Surgical Instruments made by Nodge Nolan (Artisan), maker of replica instruments.

Hessian fabric sheet with pockets for 13 surgical instruments (a-m) made of brass and steel. Rolls up for carrying purposes.

A cloth roll reconstructed to hold thirteen replica instruments. Original instruments date c. AD 50 and were found at Stanway, Colchester. The instruments were found within the grave of an indigenous British doctor (not a Roman practitioner). The Stanway archaeological find is thought to be "One of the most important medical finds in the Western world" (Reference Philip Crummy, Colchester). The set was buried with the doctor's ashes and his other professional items including a set of long metal rods (possibly divination rods or cauterising irons) laid across a gaming board. The British Museum have a first generation copy modelled from the original set (this is the second). The original instruments are rapidly disintegrating beyond any recognition of their original form. The roll holds instruments 2001:072(a-m)

Purchased from maker Nodge Nolan

(2001:072(a-m))

Roman Trephine Saw

Replica AD50 Trephine Saw With Rounded Blade made by Nodge Nolan - Artisan and replica Instrument maker.

Original instruments date c. AD 50 and were found at Stanway, Colchester. The instruments were found within the grave of an indigenous British doctor (not a Roman practitioner). The Stanway archaeological find is thought to be "One of the most important medical finds in the Western world" (Reference Philip Crummy, Colchester). The set was buried with the doctor's ashes and his other professional items including a set of long metal rods (possibly divination rods or cauterising irons) laid across a gaming board. The British Museum have a first generation copy modelled from the original set (this is the second). The original instruments are rapidly disintegrating beyond any recognition of their original form. Nodge Nolan made these instruments by directly analysing and reproducing the originals.

Purchased from maker Nodge Nolan

(2001:072(a))

Roman Saw Blade

Replica AD50 Brass Handled Small Surgical Saw Blade made by Nodge Nolan - Artisan and Replica Historical Instrument maker.

Blade of instrument only. The original instruments date c. AD 50 and were found at Stanway, Colchester. This is one of thirteen instruments found within the grave of an indigenous British doctor (not a Roman practitioner). The Stanway archaeological find is thought to be "One of the most important medical finds in the Western world" (Reference Philip Crummy, Colchester). The set was buried with the doctor's ashes and his other professional items including a set of long metal rods (possibly divination rods or cauterising irons) laid across a gaming board. The British Museum have a first generation copy modelled from the original set (this is the second). The original instruments are rapidly disintegrating beyond any recognition of their original form. Nodge Nolan made these instruments by directly analysing and reproducing the originals.

Purchased from maker Nodge Nolan

(2001:072(c))

Tweezers

Replica AD50 Metal Forcep / Tweezer made by Nodge Nolan - Artisan and replica Instrument maker.

One piece dark metal tweezers with rounded head and rounded tips to blades

The original instruments date c. AD 50 and were found at Stanway, Colchester. The roll holds instruments 2001:072(a-m)

(2001:072(d))

Probe

Replica AD50 Small Probe With Round Head (one of three graded sizes) made by Nodge Nolan, Artisan and replica Instrument maker

Small, sharp-pointed probe with three rings below ball shaped head.

One of thirteen instruments found at Stanway, Colchester date c. AD 50. The roll holds instruments 2001:072(a-m)

(2001:072(e))

Probe

Replica AD50 Medium Graded Probe With Sharp Pointed End (one of three graded) made by Nodge Nolan - Artisan and replica Instrument maker.

Dark metal probe. Ball and two rings at head, probe tapers to sharp point at other end.

One of thirteen instruments found at Stanway, Colchester date c. AD 50. The roll holds instruments 2001:072(a-m)

(2001:072(f))

Probe

Replica AD50 Large Graded Probe With Round Head made by Nodge Nolan - Artisan and replica Instrument maker.

Long graded probe in dark metal. Round ball at head, body tapers into four-sided sharp point.

One of thirteen instruments found at Stanway, Colchester date c. AD 50. The roll holds instruments 2001:072(a-m)

(2001:072g)

Hook

Replica AD50 Double Ended Hook / Probe made by Nodge Nolan - Artisan and replica Instrument maker.

One piece metal hook/probe. One hook is sharp, the other blunted. Hooks are at right angles to each other.

One of thirteen instruments found at Stanway, Colchester date c. AD 50. The roll holds instruments 2001:072(a-m)

(2001:072(h))

Loop and Handles

Replica AD50 One Piece Brass Instrument With Loop and Splayed Two Pointed Handle made by Nodge Nolan - Artisan and replica Instrument maker.

Thin brass instrument with loop at base and two pointed heads.

This instrument has not been officially identified and has mainly been reported as having two spikes. It is more likely that the spikes held wooden handles and the soft end was used for threading a tape (childbirth use etc). Reference K. Howell.

One of thirteen instruments found at Stanway, Colchester date c. AD 50. The roll holds instruments 2001:072(a-m)

(2001:072(i))

Hook And Probe

c. AD50 (repro)

Replica AD50 Double Ended Retractor Type Instrument made by Nodge Nolan - Artisan and replica Instrument maker.

Brass one piece instrument. Wide curved hook at one end and small pointed hook/probe at other.

One of thirteen instruments found at Stanway, Colchester date c. AD 50. The roll holds instruments 2001:072(a-m)

(2001:072(j))

Spoon

Replica AD50 Brass Director And Spoon made by Nodge Nolan - Artisan and replica Instrument maker

Brass one-piece instrument with tear-shaped bulb at one end and oval, pointed spoon at other.

One of thirteen instruments found at Stanway, Colchester date c. AD 50. The roll holds instruments 2001:072(a-m)

(2001:072(k))

Needle/Probe

Replica AD50 Thick Brass Needle/Probe made by Nodge Nolan - Artisan and replica Instrument maker.

Wide, flat needle type probe with rectangular eye in end and rounded head

One of thirteen instruments found at Stanway, Colchester date c. AD 50. The roll holds instruments 2001:072(a-m)

(2001:072(l))

Tweezers

Replica AD50 Large One Piece Brass Tweezer made by Nodge Nolan - Artisan and replica Instrument maker.

Long forcep/tweezer with rounded join and flat-ended jaws

One of thirteen instruments found at Stanway, Colchester date c. AD 50. The roll holds instruments 2001:072(a-m)

(2001:072(m))

Roman Trephine (Replica)

Replica of c. 100BC - 50AD trephine and whip saw. a) A small rod with a domed wooden end and circular brass cutting section with internal spike. b) A long folding strip of brass with fork section and thong attached in two places.

The trephine is held in position and the soft leather strip is wound around the handle when used as a whip, pulling to and fro, the trephine cuts downwards.

Loaned By: Stuart, Director, Wild Dream Films

(2001:073(a,b))

Gorget

19th century Gorget. Metal instrument shaped like a pointed shoe horn.

Used for 'cutting for the stone' (removing bladder stones).The Gorget was a semi-tube with a cutting edge which considerably speeded up the entry of the lithotomy knife. An incision was made in the perineum, and the gorget introduced to dilate the entry to allow easier access to the bladder stone. These predated the use of the lithotrite.

Donated By: St Thomas' Hospital

(1990:206)

Knife Box

Wooden Box Containing Two Steel Knives made by Down Bros, London. Long, plain, rectangular wooden box with two metal clasps containing two steel knives.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:045MB)

Amputation Knives

Two all-metal surgical knives of different sizes made by Down, London

Steel-bladed knives with chrome handles. Finger-grip style edging around handles.

In Box Number 2005:045MB

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:045MB(a,b))

Boxed Knives

Long Wooden Surgical Box Containing Two Surgical Knives Down Bros, London. Long, plain (undecorated or polished) wooden case, held closed with two hooks and eyes, containing two compartments for surgical knives.

Torn label on the box lid reads (in typewriter font) "Bristol" (partial letter) "Down Bros and May[er] and Phelp[s] surgical instrument manufactur[er]" (bracketed letters torn away). Down Bros Ltd is stamped inside the lid.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:046MB)

Amputation Knives

All metal surgical knife with a long ovate handle with ridged sides and a short blade.

Maker's name "A Browne, Leicester" is engraved into the flat of the handle.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:046MB(a,b))

Dish

Kidney-shaped dish made from stainless steel, 1960s.

On the base of dish is engraved: TRF Stainless Steel 10.56

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:052MB)

Kidney Dish

Large kidney-shaped dish made of stainless steel made by The Holborn Surgical Instrument Co Ltd, London, 1960s.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:054MB)

Enamel Kidney Dish

Cream-coloured enamel kidney-shaped dishes with a dark navy border painted around the rim of each dish, 1940s.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:055MB a,b)

Bandage Winder

Wooden framed bandage winder with a movable vertical column with a screw cap which holds it in place or releases it for movement across the frame. There are 3 rods, one with a handle.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:056MB)

Bandage Winder

Simple wooden frame bandage winder with three roads, the central one having a turning handle.

"THROAT PACK RACK" and "NEURO THEATRE" have been written on in thick black ink (marker pen?).

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:057MB)

Catheter Set

Box of Graded Urethral Catheters made by Ferguson, 1887.

Set of seven curved, graduating length and diameter tubes set into cross-hatched ebony handle with 'ring' on end of it. Sizes 12 down to 2.

Hole in end of each is either side of tube to allow irrigation and also for the threading of tape to apply medication internally into the urethra.

Donated By: Caroline Woodley/Diana Dyke; ref. Dr.Harrison.

(2002:063H(a-g))

Probe

Catheter/pressure gauge made by W. Gimber, London.

Curved probe with central unit

(1998:023)

Forceps

Scissor forceps made by C Stiefenhofer.

Small, in 3 pieces with hinge. 2 prong sharp tip with ribbed sides for grip.

(1998:026)

Dental Instruments

Set of Dental Instruments with ridged handles.

(1998:028)

Head Brace

Folding Chrome Neurological Head Brace made by Allen & Hanburys, Ltd. London, c. 1950-60.

Chrome semi-circular metal bands with four sharp tipped screws pointing inwards.

Neurological brace for the prevention of movement. The brace is constructed of three semicircles of chromed metal strips, hinged together. Two encompass the head horizontally, one goes from front to back over the top centrally. There are four screws through frame that punctuate the horizontal band at equal distances. Heads of screws are rounded and flattened while threaded ends are pointed and adjust to hold cranium. Lettering etched into top band reads: ' Allen & Hanburys Ltd , London S. S H.M. Govt.'

Loaned By: Penfold Collection

(1999:015P)

Forcep

Clamp Forcep made by Weiss, London, 19th century.

Steel toothed clamp forcep with rounded handle. Has flat sectioned grip and slide lock on one side.

Loaned By: Penfold Collection

(1999:018P)

Tracheotomy T ube

Tracheotomy Tube, Germany, c. 1880. Two pieces. A curved silver plated outer tube with an inner metal insert of a sharp-ended insertion tube (with attached holder of two tubes ).

Inscriptions: engravings on the insertion piece: bottom: "26"; Upper left: "R" (Probably manufacturer's mark). Upper right: "Germany". The number "26" is also engraved on the holders of the two combined tubes of the holder.

Loaned By: Penfold Collection ref Dr. M. Smith, Colchester

(1999:019P)

Probe

Fluted probe with one rounded and one needle sharp end. Round cross-section. Brass. Circa 1910.

Loaned By: Penfold Collection

(1999:020P)

Instrument Box

Small Mahogany Surgical Box Containing Scissors and Scalpels made by Ferris & Co, Bristol, c. 1890.

Mahogany box with wood and steel instruments inside, including scissors, scalpel, tweezers, probe etc. Possibly an opthalmic set.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:065MB)

Surgical Hook

Surgical Hook with Ebony Handle made by Down, London, c. 1850.

Steel hook inserted in scored ebony handle held by two studs. The instrument handle is inscribed:"DOWN / LONDON". The instrument was described on Professor Harold Ellis visit 24/1/00 as "a general purpose surgical hook".

Loaned By: Penfold Collection, Colchester

(1999:054P)

Bistoury

Curved Guarded Bistoury with Ebony Handle made by Down, London, 19th century.

Slender surgical knife with a studded, cross-hatched, ebony handle. The blade is thick rounded metal with a flattened part close to its tip. Blade is rivetted into the handle.

The use of a bistoury; "The soft tip is inserted into the hernia through the neck guarded, so it doesn't cut into the intestine" quote by Prof. Harold Ellis, 2000.

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:053P)

Scalpel

All metal scalpel. Handle and blade are one piece. Circa 1950.

Donated with object number 1999:207, with local South London family information and reference to Middlesex Hospital (1890s) use of coal dust in wounds.

"Sarah Jane Helen Dracott. Born 1870. Died 1969. Born 127 Percy Road, Shepherds Bush. My great great grandmother. When she was at the age of 15, she was taken ill, it was her appendix, she was taken to the West Middlesex Hospital where she had an operation. They cut her across her stomach from hip to hip. The scar was like looking at railway lines, because the surgeon had put coal dust over the scar. She died at the ripe old age of 99. I am her great great grandson."

Told to, and later written and sent to Museum with a photo of Sarah by Mr Robson in 1999.

Donated By: Mr Robson

(1999:208)

Staples

Clip of Surgical Staples, 20th century.

Thin metal wire frame holding 24 staples. Staples are fitted onto wire holder, and have spikes at ends.

Staple clip presumably loads into gun. Used to hold flesh in correct position, for wound closure instead of stitches. Plastic surgery use eg. is to staple flesh to the skull when skin is repositioned.

Loaned By: Penfold Collection

(1999:056P)

Retractor

Eye lid Retractor, c. 1899.

Silver plate sprung clip to hold eyelids open during examination/operation. 1.25mm diam. wire coiled for spring.

Approximately 15mm of one arm is broken off and missing. Part of pocket ophthalmic dressing case 2002:038H.

Donated By: Caroline Woodley, Mrs Diana Dyke. ref-Dr Harrison

(2002:038H(c))

Scissors

Small Pointed Surgical Scissors made by Ferris & Co, Bristol, c. 1890s.

Triangular pointed scissors with very rounded finger loops. Made of steel.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:065MB (a))

Amputation Knife

Amputation Knife with Ebony Handle, 19th century.

Narrow bladed knife, 5 studded ebony handle.

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:045P)

Amputation Knife

Narrow blade amputation knife , with one piece handle held in place by metal clamp, made by Young.

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:046P)

Amputation knife

Amputation Knife with Ebony Handle, Bound with Cord, circa 1840-50. Knife with very narrow waist to blade near handle, (seems to be worn thin by sharpening) ebony handle held together, wound with twisted cream colour cord and held in place by black substance which marks last 2 turns of cord at end of handle (bitumen/resin).

The natural cord handle cover is dirty where it would have fitted into the surgeon's hand. On the handle end circa 20mm of handle winding is whiter where it has not been actually held at all. The grip is otherwise worn shiny and dirty with use. The blade has been continually sharpened from centree to tip the wasting midway is close to the breaking point. The knife was obviously used regularly by its owner and indicates the surgeon's use of his own preferred instruments (over our usual modern hospitals' practice of using neutrally provided disposable instruments etc).

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:047P)

Pins

Six Steel pins with flat head and flattened point, two of these have tiny curl to tip point. Two headless pins, steel, one marked. All inside tissue wrapper inside brown card board box with metal corners. Twentieth century.

Tip indicates probably for flesh. Original wrapping said 'steel pins'.

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:058P)

Catheter Box

Twentieth Century Thin ovate case with hinged lid with catch of e.p.n.s./ plate metal containing two (different gauge) long rubber catheters.

Prof. H. Ellis said on examination..'this is your standard 'pocket box' of catheters'.ie. handy to have close at hand in the pocket.

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:067P)

Forceps / Clamp

Surgical Spring Forcep. Tweezer like clamp with tight catch (screwed on inside) with 'V' shaped join and male/female serrated tip. Has a ridged hand grip and soft point to the end. Arms joined by two rivets. Mid 19th century.

Lines on handle grips are irregular, either hand engraved or hand machined and possibly oxidised as decoration. Instrument holds a very strong grip.

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:068P)

Glass Connectors

Surgical intravenous glass connectors, Twentieth Century. Modern metal cornered cardboard box containing 3 fine clear glass tubes tapering at one end.

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:070P)

Needle in Case

Tri-Point Piercer made by Arnold & Son, London, 20th century.

Two pieces of EPNS/Plate cover and sheath. Screw join in centre. Tip is facetted, looks like a metal fishing weight.

Loaned By: Penfold Collection

(1999:072P)

Amputation Set

Metal Amputation Set in Wooden Box made by Down Bros of St Thomas' Street, c. 1910.

Wooden box lined with metal trays. Contains amputation set including bow saw and 3 all metal, ridged side profile graded knives.

The instruments were used by Dr C.S. Bond, who trained at Guy's and practised as a G.P. in Highgate, Liphoof, Madrid, Sheerness and Ewell. Old label says c1910 and Down Bros. existed until about 1980. The metal finish and sterilising dish show this is post-Listerian.

Donated By: Mr C. K. Bond

(1990:132)

Ligatures

Box of Glass Phials Containing Catgut Ligatures Prepared by the London Hospital (Ligature Department) Ltd, London E1, 1963.

Labelled cardboard box containing 10 cardboard tubes. Each tube holds a clear glass phial containing sterilisation fluid, a shank with one twist of 5 feet(marked on box), or about 60" of yellowed colour catgut. Phials are printed along length with black capital text,"STERILISED SURGICAL CATGUT/ LONDON HOSPITAL PLAIN / MORLEY'S PROCESS". Tubes look like fine sealed test tubes with a waist in the middle.

Paper label is wrapped around sides of box, so had been torn to open, two phials were missing on delivery. Picture of crowned robed woman helping reclining woman and flourished border with motto underneath "HOMO SUM HUMANI NIHIL A ME ALIEUM PUTO" (London Hospital motto), all printed in green ink. End of box is printed similarly and over marked in black ink; "Batch no. 023138. Date of manufacture 24 JUNE 1963. PLAIN (NON_HARDENED) 2/0 BP".The glass phials are broken for use with an instrument of two hollow metal tubes joined with a chain.

Donated By: Guy's Hospital

(2000:002)

Sound

Graduated Urethral Sound made by Thackray, Leeds. Tapered brass rod with small grooved grip one side of handle. Probe end is fine then slightly bulbed. Seven sizes are marked on ridges along rod.

Makers mark - Hackray = Thackray. This is either c. 1870's (more likely) or c.1940s dependent if it was used by either Dr Harrison or son Dr Woodley. Instrument is used to probe and measure and gauge urethral passage depth.

Donated By: Caroline Woodley & Mrs Diana Dyke.

(2002:027H)

Forceps

Long Handled Forceps with hollowed clasp with grooved inside edge.

Part of an anonymous Donation of twentieth Century instruments, object numbers (1990:215-227 inclusive).

Donated By: Anonymous

(1990:215)

Horsehair Sutures

Tin of Black Horsehair Sutures J. F. Macfarlan & Co. Ltd. Round tin containing a ring of black horsehair. Lid has black print on white ground round paper printed label. 20th century.

Sutures were made of varying natural materials including silk until Joseph Lister introduced a standard sterilised suture made of catgut (sheep intestine). Listerian sutures were usually kept submerged in antiseptic fluid. Modern aseptic sutures are issued in one piece, thread attached to a small curved needle.

(2005:008)

Sound

Male Urethral Sound made by Arnold. Nineteenth century.

Metal rod with with flat handle. Curved at one end. Groove runs from half way along the outside of rod to the tip.

Used as director for 'the cutting of the stone'. Passed down the urethra during lithotomy to locate the bladder and stone. The sound was inserted down the urethra, an incision was made into the perineum (between the genitalia and the anus), then the gorget was pushed into the cut. The raised tip of the gorget must slot into the groove of the Sound. Now located, instruments in place, the stone is ready for extraction.

Donated By: St Thomas' Hospital

(1990:209)

Hip Joint Drill

Stainless Steel Hip Joint Bone Shaping Drill Unit, 1980s.

Long rod with domed grater unit on tip. Used to adjust hip unit to new artificial hip joint. "50mm" size is printed on hexagonal shaft.

(2003:038 (a))

Box of Needles

Box of hypodermic needles and 'Butterfly' type adaptors, made by Vita, Yale Street, Luer, Down, 20th century.

20 various needles and 6 adaptors for use with rubber tube attachment. One needle has a brass head. One is a butterfly type, with metal extension wings used as intravenous junction (for repeated injection).

Loaned By: Penfold collection, loan

(1999:101P)

Surgical Instrument Box

Wide wooden surgical instrument box lined with green velvet, 19th century. Two layers to box. Amputation knives and heavier pieces were stored in the bottom of the box. Lighter instruments and dental key in the top tray. All scissor spaces accessioned empty. Brass hinges and brass swing hook, locks broken off in side.

The top inner tray of the box lifts out to give access to the set of three large broad backed Simpson amputation knives, a catlin and (blade only present) saw.

Loaned By: Penfold Collection

(1999:107P)

Tin of Surgical Drill Bits

Oval shaped tin containing 1 'T' shaped handle (or key) and six all metal instruments. Box base is lined with cotton wadding and gauze.

Tin has maker's mark inside lid, DOWN BROS, St.Thomas' street, Borough, London. Drill handle marked: DOWN, LONDON. Long thin metal instruments, one with rounded and rigged head marked. One narrower bit has finer head. One very narrow with sharp, bladed point. 3 have short prongs, possibly for fixing or adjusting. Two with oval handles one with flattened end. One is very short 15mm bit with circular base and sharp point. One 50mm long screw.

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:090P)

Forceps

Sterile plastic forceps x 2, 1970-1990. White plastic forceps sealed in clear polythene and paper package.

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:092P)

Amputation/ Autopsy Knife

Surgical Amputation and/or Autopsy Knife made by Skidmore, England. Heavy short bladed, stainless steel knife with concave grip handle.

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:094P)

Sharpening Stone

Carborundum stone for sharpening surgical needles, 20th century. Grey pumice type material stone of tapered width.

Loaned By: Penfold Collection

(1999:071P)

Catheter

Metal surgical catheter. Hollow silver/plate tube with rounded end with elongated eye holes either side and two small circle rings attached for connection etc. 19th century.

The catheter was passed down the urethra to act as a tube to pass water or medication into body.

Loaned By: Penfold collection

(1999:102P)

Lithotomy Scoop

Double Ended Lithotomy Scoop, made by Down Bros, c. 1840. Double ended rod with swollen middle as handle, looks like is of brass (brown) with silver plate still inside triangular spoon bowl, which is sharply turned at tip.

Loaned By: Penfold Collection

(1999:100P)

Urethral Sound

Female Urethral Sound, made by Down Brothers, London, 19th century. Long tapered probe with 45 degree angle 50mm from small bulbous tip. Flat spoon type handle.

This is a female urethral probe also known as a sound. The instrument has a short and angled tip over the male sound which is curved. Six circular lines mark a graduated scale for the safe estimated insertion depth within the patient's body. The sound was lubricated and inserted down the urethra to check for blockage and as a diagnostic tool to test for the presence of bladderstone. The instrument is likely to be silver plated over a copper or bronze core (seen where there is noticable wear at the tip).

Loaned By: Penfold Collection / Loan

(1999:098P)

Amputation Knife

All Metal Amputation Knife, made by Seward, England.

Loaned By: Loan Penfold Collection; Colchester

(1999:052P)

Tweezers

Round-tipped spring forceps/tweezers, made by Ferris & Co, Bristol, c. 1890. Tweezers with grooved edges. Brass but may have been chrome-plated (traces of shiny metal). Possibly opthalmic.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:065MB)

Probe & Lithotomy Scoop

Lithotomy Scoop, made by Simpson. Double ended spoon. Oxidised blue black colour lines on each narrowed bowl. The tiny gouges in the bowls are an anti-slip device for purchase onto the bladderstone.

Female urethral sound, made by Simpson, 19th century. Silver metal (probably steel) rod, ridged lines on shaft above a two bend 'curve'. Small flattened shaped ridge lined finger grip.

This is a female urethral probe, also known as a sound. The instrument has a short and angled shaft, over the male sound which is curved. The sound was lubricated and inserted down the urethra to check for blockage and as a diagnostic tool to test for the presence of bladderstone.

Loaned By: Penfold Collection

(1999:117P)

Loaned By: Penfold Collection

(1999:119P)

Amputation Knife

Broad backed amputation knife with cross-hatched ebony handle, made by Simpson , 19th century. Large amputation knife, with silver coloured metal blade, single edged very sharp, gently curved towards sharp edge.

Loaned By: ref: Dr. M. Smith; Penfold Collection

(1999:125P)

Lithotrite

Lithotrite, made by J. Millikin, London, c. 1850. Hollow silver coloured metal handle with extending metal rod shaft with adjustable curved jaw tip. Has vertically ridged handle and a turning wheel on the end of the handle.

Due to the Millikin mark engraved in italics down side of handle (Millikin stopped trading 1879) this instrumant is likely to have been used at Old St Thomas' Hospital. The instrument was used for the operation of lithotrity. Lithotrity was an operation undertaken to crush bladderstones within the body. The use of the instrument was to insert the lubricated tip and shaft into the urethra of the patient, passing it through into the bladder. When in contact with the bladderstone, a sliding section within the rod was then pushed forward by the surgeon to open the jaws of the Lithrotrite. The sliding section was then pulled back to draw the jaws together to bite tightly onto the stone. The wheel at the end of the handle was then turned to clip and break the offending stone. The process was repeated until the stone was crushed into small pieces that could then be passed through and out of the body by the patient naturally. Lithotrity did not require an additional perineal incision as did the Lithotomy operation, the operation known as 'Cutting for the Stone'.

Loaned By: St Thomas' Hospital

(1990:004)

Spring Scissors

Paediatric Ophthalmic Spring Scissors, made by Timor (German). Very fine scissor bladed instrument made of 2 pieces joined at either ends (tip and scissor pin) . When textured grips are pushed together, the very fine blades close to cut.

Donated By: Dr Michael Joseph

(2002:008)

Medication Box

Wooden Box Containing Pediatric Ophthalmic Equipment. High walled, dark wood box with hinged front flap opening.

Donated By: Dr Michael Joseph

(2002:007)

Piercer

Tri-Point Piercer (I tyringotomy)with cover, made by Bailey. Metal 'probe' that unscrews to reveal that it is a 3-blade point needle probe with its own cover.

Donated By: Dr Michael Joseph

(2002:009)

Tonsil Guillotine

Tonsil guillotine, 1950s. Unit of one moveable rod positioned over a bar, with three finger holes and a ring with sharp rounded inner edge and two prongs below working end.

Use of the pistol type Tonsil Guillotine: 1) When double finger holes are pulled back, with thumb in the end hole, the spikes go forward to grip the tonsil hanging through the main end ring. 2) The action is that the oval section splits in two halves, lowest coming backward which cuts tonsil. 3) The tonsil is removed on the spikes.

Donated By: Caroline Woodley & Mrs Diana Dyke

(2002:020H)

Ophthalmic Box

Ophthalmic instruments in black shagreen case, made by S. Maw, London, c. 1880.

Slim black box with two outside catches. Faded red velvet lining, fitted with 6 slots for 5 instruments, with side section and space for scissor and forcep.

The ivory handled ophthalmic probe and the ivory handled ophthalmic scalpel match. The tapered rectangular probe and the tapered rectangular blade also match. Belonged to Dr J G Harrison and was part of a kit taken to the Congo in 1887. Made of shagreen, which is a tough sharkskin leather.

Donated By: Caroline Woodley And Diana Dyke (grand daughters of Dr J G Harrison)

(2002:035H(a-b) )

Tourniquet

Surgical Tourniquet, c. 1870. Canvas strap wound through a brass screw device which consists of two square plates with round bars for the strap to pass through on two sides. A large screw is central and perpendicular to the plates.

Tourniquet: a constrictive band applied to arrest arterial haemorrage. The strap is buckled around the limb with the pressure pad situated on the artery. As the screw is turned clockwise the upper plate rises, pulling the strap with it, so increasing constriction and arresting blood flow.

Donated By: Caroline Woodley & Diana Dyke

(2002:028H)

Scalpel

Curved Steel Scalpel, c. 1890. All metal scalpel with grooved handle and curved blade (cutting side on inner curve).

Possibly ophthalmic. Engraved logo on blade - snake and sceptre with crown.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:065MBd)

Ophthalmic Case

Pocket dressing case, containing ophthalmic instruments, made by Ferris & Company, 19th/early 20th century.

Pocket sized leather, two fold dressing case, ox-blood colour, with brass clasp. Contains 18 ophthalmic / surgical instruments.

Donated By: Caroline Woodley & Diana Dyke (Dr. Harrison ref.)

(2002:038H)

Forceps

Femur Setting Forceps, c. 890.

Donated By: Barry Saunders

(2001:069)

Tongs

Metal tongs. Primitive looking instrument in silver iron. Jaw is rod that alligns to curved sheath. Looks like long pliers.

Cautery likely use.

Donated By: Caroline Woodley & Diana Dyke (also ref. Harrison)

(2002:084H)

Plasma Kit

Government Issue Intravenous Emergency Feeding Kit of Dried Human Plasma and Water Reichel Laboratories, Kimberton, PA, USA.

Cardboard box (small shoebox size) containing two brass coloured cylinders. One contains dried plasma in glass bottle, an intravenous needle, a double-ended needle and clamp. Other contains distilled water in glass bottle and rubber observation tube. Box also contains one printed paper sheet of instructions and 2 sheets questionnaires.

Donated By: Caroline Woodley & Diana Dyke (also ref. Harrison)

(2002:087H)

Boxed Scalpels

Pocket Set of Dissection Instruments, with various makers, including: Jerpis & Co, Peacock, Milikin, Gardner of Edinburgh and Strange. Late 1880s.

Small, slim, rectangular box containing 3 scalpels, 2 lancets, chain and hooks instrument, piercer, screwdriver and three pieces of glass tubing.

Donated By: Donation, Caroline Woodley & Mrs Diana Dyke (ggdaughters to Dr Harrison)

(2002:034H(a-k) )

Surgeon's Dressings Box

Metal Surgeon's Dressings Box, painted brown, likely 1940s. Bread loaf size metal box painted in yellowy-brown paint, with matt cream painted interior. Contains unused packets of surgical dressings.

Donated By: Caroline Woodley / Diana Dyke

(2002:089H)

Forceps

Sequistrated forceps, made by Evans, 19th century.

Small pointed tweezers, require pressure to close ridged outside arms for finger grip and inside tips for grip.

Donated By: Caroline Woodley/Diana Dyke Ref: Dr Harrison

(2002:038H(n) )

Surgical Kit

Mahogany Pocket Surgical Kit, made by Ferris & Co, Bristol, c. 1860s.

Mahogany box containing surgical kit, lined with purple velvet.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:066MB (a-k) )

Scalpels

Three Surgical Scalpels Of Different Sizes With Ivory Handles, made by Ferris & Co, Bristol, c. 1860s.

Three surgical scalpels with smooth, thin, flat, ivory handles. The maker's name, Ferris & Co, is engraved at the base of each blade, just as it enters the handle

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:066MB b,c,d)

Trocar & Cannulae

Three Trocar and Cannulae of Different Sizes, c. 1860s.

Ebony-handled metal trocar and cannulae with curved handles for gripping

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:083MB(a-c) )

Engel's Plaster Saw

Engel's Orthopaedic Plaster Saw. Small-bladed saw with curved handle with cut-out centre. All metal blade is curved with serrations right around the semi-circular shape. Two small pins hold the blade to the handle.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:084MB)

Lane's Bone Tool

Lane's Bone Tool, made by Down Bros, London, 1895.

Heavy chrome plated handle-like tool with oval head and long shaft ending in serrated edges

Maker's name is engraved on side of shaft

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:085MB)

Bone Chisel

Heavy Metal Bone Chisel. Wedge-shaped one piece chisel with rounded handle.

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:086MB)

Forceps

Ivory Handled Forceps, made by Weiss, c. 1860s.

Small forceps with one 8-sided ivory handle and two serrated sharp spring blades. "Weiss" is written on inside of blade, half-covered in rust

Donated By: Monica Britton Medical History Collection

(2005:088MB)

Trephine

Late 18th Century mahogany handled steel trephine.

(1990:237(a) )

Key & Brush

(c) Late 18th Century key for changing inner piece on trephine, with decorative, flower-shaped head.

(d) Late 18th Century square-handled small mahogany brush with black bristles, for brushing away bits of bone during trepanning.

(1990:237(c,d) )

Tweezers

Late 18th Century Wide Bladed Thin One Piece Metal Tweezers / Forceps

One-piece metal tweezer with wide, slightly curved blades. Two raised bands on each blade with triangular markings inside inner tips.

Width of the jaw grips was to increase hold when removing the trephined bone disc.

(1990:237(e) )

Elevator

Late 18th Century Trephination Elevator, made by Elliot. Wood-handled steel instrument. Handle curved for gripping. Steel elevator end is flattened and curved with rounded tip, hatched with thin lines across it.

Inserted through trephine hole to either lever a bone disc or raise an indented/splintered cranium

(1990:237(f) )

Skull Saw

Late 18th Century Double-Sided Skull Saw

Ebony-handled, steel-bladed skull saw with double head - one side curved, one side straight.

Double-sided blade for making small cuts to the curve of the skull.

(1990:237(g) )