John Arderne facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Arderne
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|---|---|
| Born | 1307 |
| Died | 1392 |
| Nationality | English |
| Alma mater | University of Montpellier |
| Occupation | Surgeon |
| Employer | John of Gaunt and the English Army |
| Known for | Fistula in ano, making an anesthetic out of hemlock and henbane. |
| Title | Sir |
John of Arderne (born 1307, died 1392) was an important English surgeon. He was one of the first surgeons in his time to find successful ways to treat illnesses. Many people see him as one of the founders of modern surgery. Some even call him England's first truly famous surgeon.
What's amazing is that some of his medical treatments are still used today! John of Arderne helped both rich and poor people. He believed that wealthy patients should pay as much as they could. But he also thought that poor people should get help for free. His ideas for treating sickness were very advanced for the 1300s.
Contents
Early Life and Education
John of Arderne spent his early life in a town called Newark-on-Trent. It is also thought that he might have lived in Nottingham. Experts believe he studied at the University of Montpellier in France. There, he learned from the medical ideas of ancient scholars.
By the year 1370, he was living in London. It's believed he became a member of the Guild of Surgeons around this time. This was a group for skilled medical professionals.
Military Service and Experience
John of Arderne also served as a surgeon in the army. He was part of the Hundred Years' War. He worked for important leaders like Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.
He also saw battle at the Siege of Algeciras (1342-1344). This was one of the first European battles where gunpowder was used. The injuries he saw there taught him a lot. These experiences helped him write his medical books for the next 30 years. He proudly called himself a "Master Surgeon" in his writings.
Key Medical Contributions
John of Arderne created several important treatments. Many of these were for knights. Knights often spent long hours riding horses. This could cause a painful condition called "Fistula In Ano." This condition caused a large, sore lump to appear near the bottom of the spine.
Treating Fistula In Ano
John of Arderne found a way to successfully remove this painful lump. He wrote down exactly how to do the surgery in a historical document. This document still exists today!
Today, doctors call this condition a pilonidal cyst. It's a type of abscess or tunnel that forms under the skin.
Other Medical Innovations
John of Arderne also made other useful medical items. He created a special ointment to treat arrow wounds. An ointment is a smooth, oily cream. He also made special liquids called clysters in 1376. These were made from plants like hemlock and henbane. These plants were used to help with pain.
Later Life and Legacy
John of Arderne passed away in 1392. He was 85 years old. He did not have any children mentioned in his will. His work helped shape the future of surgery.
See also
