Editorial: A Tribute to Mediterranean Pioneers in Facial Plastic and Craniomaxillofacial Surgery

Abstract

Background: Physicians from the Mediterranean civilization were profoundly instrumental in the early development and contemporary advancement of the craniomaxillofacial field. These feats are scarcely studied or acclaimed. In this editorial, the authors explore the contributions of these major Mediterranean pioneers. Methods: A literature review on the subject was performed using PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Mayo Clinic Libraries. Results: Mediterranean medicine has recognized and managed craniomaxillofacial pathologies from as early as the 10th century. The first inscriptions were authored by Abu Alkasem al-Zahrawi and Serefeddin Sabuncuoglu. Starting in the 15th century, Leonardo da Vinci shed light on anatomy and esthetics at a time where Gasparo Tagliacozzi spearheaded maxillofacial techniques. The field during the Renaissance was dominated by Hippocrates Asclepiades. Varaztad Kazanjian revolutionized the armamentarium necessitated by mass emergencies during the World War. In the 20th century, Paul Tessier redefined the limits of craniomaxillofacial treatment by using facial osteotomies and developing refined surgical instruments. Modern day Sam Hamra, Enrico Robotti, and Daniel Labbé continue to lead educational and innovative fronts of the field. Conclusions: This essay highlights some important historical contributions to the fields of craniomaxillofacial and facial plastic surgery by pioneer surgeons from around the Mediterranean.