Medical, Chirurgical, and Anatomical Cases and Observations.

observations on 624 medical, surgical and anatomical cases

The first edition in English of this collection of medical case studies compiled by Lorenz Heister (1683-1758), who was professor of anatomy and surgery at the University of Altdorf in Northern Bavaria, and later at Helmstedt in Saxony.

The book contains observations on 624 medical, surgical and anatomical cases, offering a fascinating insight into the state of medicine at the beginning of the eighteenth century. Examples include a 'man of cheerful disposition' who survived a gunshot wound to the temple, a 'hypochondriacal' student cured of violent vomiting, and a 'disagreeable eruption' on a man's face, amongst more standard observations, anatomical studies, and surgical operations. Illustrated with 8 engraved folding-plates illustrating observed cases.

Heister was well-regarded in his own day, being made a fellow of The Royal Society (of England) in 1630, and his work were used by students well into the nineteenth century.

First edition in English; folio (25.5 x 21.5 cm); engraved title vignette, 8 folding plates, title a little toned, later endpapers; contemporary calf, covers later ruled in gilt, expertly rebacked with the original spine laid down, contrasting red morocco lettering-piece, a little abraded with minor loss, very good; xxxii, 708pp.

ESTC T114641.