Rugine, part of trephination set

Rugine, part of trephination set

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Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum, London

Rugine with wooden handle, part of trephination set by Sirhenry, France, 1771-1830

A rugine is a type of surgical scraper to remove connective tissues to give the surgeon as clear a view of the bones as possible, including the skull. This instrument pre-dates ideas about infection causes and their prevention during operations. Any surgery was risky due to the potential for infection. Trephination, the cutting of a hole in the skull, was likely done as a last resort.

Details

Category:
Surgery
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A121486 Pt2
Materials:
steel and wood
Measurements:
overall: 175 mm x 23 mm, 17 mm,
type:
rugines
credit:
Loan, Wellcome Trust