Hippocrates: A Pioneer in Orthopaedics and Traumatology

Abstract

Purpose Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician, is considered the father of Medicine; however, his contributions to Orthopaedics and Traumatology have not been highlighted enough. The present historical review represents an effort to present and categorize his work, in this field, per clinical disorder and anatomical region. Methods The “Hippocratic Corpus” original text was thoroughly studied to identify all Hippocrates’ contributions in Orthopaedics and Traumatology. Volume III of his works, especially “On Fractures”, “On Joints”, and “Mochlicon” includes a plethora of information regarding the management of traumas, as well as other disorders and clinical entities of the musculoskeletal system. Results In particular, Hippocrates describes reduction techniques for fractures, as well as joint dislocations, elaborates on the biology of the fractures’ healing process and the basic principles of fracture management and fixation, presents the signs and symptoms of gangrene, teaches the treatment of osseous infections and offers valuable insight on the biomechanics and treatment of spinal diseases. Conclusions Hippocrates’ contributions in Orthopaedics and Traumatology are unprecedented, making him a true pioneer in this field, while the basic principles that he presented were further studied and confirmed in the 19th and 20th centuries.