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Researchers during a routine DNA test on a male Egyptian have made an astonishing discovery after finding a 23cm iron orthopaedic screw inside his knee. The presence of such a surgical implant, held in place by organic resin akin to modern bone cement, challenges conventional beliefs about the sophistication of medical procedures in ancient civilizations.
The fact that this operation took place over 3,000 years ago highlights the advanced knowledge and skills possessed by ancient Egyptian physicians. Utilizing iron screws for orthopedic surgery demonstrates a level of surgical expertise and innovation previously underestimated by historians and medical experts.
The meticulous examination of the mummy, including drilling through the bone to access the screw with an arthroscopic camera, further underscores the dedication of researchers to uncovering the secrets of ancient medical practices. This remarkable discovery opens new avenues for understanding the history of medicine and the evolution of surgical techniques, bridging the gap between ancient and modern healthcare practices.
To date, no other mummy has ever been found with evidence of a similar surgery. “I have to give the ancients a lot of credit for what they have done,” added Dr. Wilfred Griggs, who led the team of scientists conducting DNA research on the mummy when they made this incredible find.
