Neurosurgery at Pearl Harbor: Ralph Cloward’s legacy

Abstract

Ralph B. Cloward (1908–2000) was the sole neurosurgeon present during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Cloward operated on 42 patients in a span of 4 days during the attacks and was awarded a commendation signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1945 for his wartime efforts. During the attacks, he primarily treated depressed skull fractures and penetrating shrapnel wounds, but he also treated peripheral nerve and spine injuries in the aftermath. His techniques included innovative advancements such as tantalum cranioplasty plates, electromagnets for intracranial metallic fragment removal, and the application of sulfonamide antibiotic powder within cranial wounds, which had been introduced by military medics for gangrene prevention in 1939 and described for penetrating cranial wounds in 1940. Despite the severity of injuries encountered, only 2 soldiers died in the course of Cloward’s interventions. As the sole neurosurgeon in the Pacific Theater until 1944, he remained in Honolulu through World War II’s duration and gained immense operative experience through his wartime service. Here, the authors review the history of Cloward’s remarkable efforts, techniques, injury patterns treated, and legacy.