The Crossroads of Hellenistic and Indian Anatomical Knowledge

Abstract

Most of the Western literature praise Greek civilization and medicine, to which they owe their origin and in doing so, they have conveniently and consistently ignored the contributions of India. The primary focus of this historical review is centered on Sushruta’s and Hippocrates contributions to the field of medicine. Sushruta, considered to be ‘‘Father of Plastic Surgery’’ is renowned for his unparallel teachings of anatomy, pathophysiology and unique therapeutic strategies. He is widely known for nasal reconstruction, which is clearly evident when we trace historical literature from his depiction within the ancient period of Hindu medicine to the era of Renaissance Italy and finally upto the modern-day surgical practices. Hippocrates, who is regarded as the “Father of Western Medicine”, is credited with the introduction of the concept of ‘physis’ and was thus responsible for the transformation of hieratic or theocratic medicine into rational medicine.