As part of our series on the Western Front, this chart summarises the main medical advancements that were made during the first world war as medics adapted to the new would types, diseases and maladies.
How war impacted the development of treatment and care of those wounded in battle
Fighting infection and preventative measures.
- increased use of vaccinations
- aseptic surgery on the battlefield
- preventative measures: regular inspection of soldiers for trench foot
- development of gas masks
New surgical techniques
- number of operations heightened, increasing surgeons experience
- surgeons become specialists in certain areas
- development of skin grafts and plastic surgery
Investment
- Government spending increased for research and experimentation during war
Improved battlefield medical aid
- more efficient system to evacuate the wounded developed
- development of specific medical aid posts
- commencement of the triage system
Development of life saving technologies
- X-ray machine that was portable
- blood banks and blood transfusions
- the Thomas Splint