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Has war been the main factor in the development of surgery and anatomy? Explain your answer with reference to war and other factors - AQA - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 4
Has war been the main factor in the development of surgery and anatomy? Explain your answer with reference to war and other factors. Use a range of examples from y... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Has war been the main factor in the development of surgery and anatomy? Explain your answer with reference to war and other factors - AQA - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explanation of war as a factor in surgery and anatomy
Answer
War has undeniably played a major role in advancing surgery and medical practices, particularly during significant conflicts such as the First and Second World Wars. For instance, the development of the Army Legs Splint was a direct response to the need for advanced treatment of broken bones in soldiers. Similarly, advancements in surgical techniques arose from the necessity to treat traumatic injuries sustained in combat, leading to improvements in areas such as anesthesia and blood transfusions.
Step 2
Consideration of other factors
Answer
While war has been a crucial driver of surgical innovation, it is important to acknowledge other factors that have influenced the development of surgery and anatomy. Scientific advancements, like the discovery of anesthesia in the 19th century, dramatically changed surgical practices, allowing for more complex procedures to be conducted without pain. Additionally, the role of technology, including the development of x-rays during World War I, helped in diagnosing injuries and informed surgical practices more effectively.
Step 3
Conclusion on the significance of war versus other factors
Answer
In conclusion, while war has been a significant factor in the evolution of surgery and anatomy, it is interwoven with other critical influences such as scientific discovery and technological advancements. These elements together shaped modern medical practices, illustrating that while war has contributed greatly, it is not the sole factor in the development of surgery and anatomy.