The Development of Surgical Instruments by Al-Zahrawi and Its Impact on Medical Science in the Golden Age of Islam in the 10th Century AD

Kahfie Ahmad Ahsin; Siti Tri Anteng

doi:10.59996/cendib.v4i1.1043

Authors

Kahfie Ahmad Ahsin UIN Professor Kyai Haji Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto
Siti Tri Anteng UIN Professor Kyai Haji Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59996/cendib.v4i1.1043

Keywords:

Al-Zahrawi, Surgical Instruments, Medical Science

Abstract

Abu al-Qasim al-Zahrawi is one of the most influential figures in the history of Islamic medicine whose contributions continue to shape modern medical science. This article aims to analyze and classify surgical instruments developed by Al-Zahrawi and examine their impact on the development of medical knowledge in the Islamic world and Europe. This study employs the historical method, consisting of heuristics, source criticism, interpretation, and historiography, with data collected through library research using primary and secondary sources. The findings reveal that Al-Zahrawi systematically designed a wide range of surgical instruments, including scalpels, surgical scissors, forceps, suturing tools, cauterization devices, and instruments for gynecology and dentistry. These instruments reflect not only technical innovation but also a sophisticated understanding of anatomy and clinical practice. The discussion highlights that Al-Zahrawi's works laid the foundation for the development of surgery in the Islamic world and significantly influenced European medicine through the translation of al-Tasrif. This article reinforces Al-Zahrawi's position as a pioneer of modern surgical science within the historiography of medicine.

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