Shalya Tantra, a branch of Ayurveda, was a significant aspect of ancient Indian medical practices, particularly focusing on major surgical procedures. The term "Shalya" is derived from the Sanskrit word for arrow, emphasizing its historical association with the extraction of arrows and foreign bodies from the body.
The Sushruta Samhita, attributed to the ancient Indian
physician Sushruta, stands out as a comprehensive and influential text in the
field of surgery. Composed around 600 BCE, it provides detailed insights into
various aspects of surgery, including surgical instruments, techniques,
pre-operative and post-operative care, and even touches upon plastic surgery.
The Sushruta Samhita describes a wide array of surgical
instruments—around 100 in number—that were employed in different procedures.
These instruments were crafted from materials such as wood, stone, and metals.
The text also emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and hygiene in the
surgical process, indicating an early understanding of infection control
measures.
One of the remarkable features of Shalya Tantra is its
coverage of obstetrics, addressing the complexities of childbirth. The text
offers guidance on the management of difficult deliveries, highlighting the
knowledge and skills ancient Indian surgeons possessed in the field of
obstetrics.
In addition to surgical techniques and instruments, the
Sushruta Samhita discusses the use of various medicinal substances, including
alkalis and bandages, in the treatment of surgical cases. Post-operative care
and nursing were also given due consideration, underlining the holistic
approach to patient management.
Perhaps most intriguingly, Sushruta Samhita touches upon the practice of plastic surgery. The text describes procedures for reconstructive surgery, including the repair of severed noses (rhinoplasty) using a technique where skin flaps from the cheek or forehead were employed.
The contributions of Shalya Tantra and the Sushruta Samhita highlight the advanced state of medical knowledge and surgical practices in ancient India. The meticulous documentation and systematic approach laid the foundation for the development of surgical techniques that were remarkably sophisticated for their time.