The Role of War in Renaissance Medicine

What role did war play in medicine in the Renaissance?

War played an important role in the development of medicine and surgery during the Renaissance. The development of gunpowder meant there was a wide range of new wounds to treat.

What are some examples of war influencing medicine in the Renaissance?

There are 2 main examples of the role that war played in medicine during the Renaissance.

• ❖ Ambroise Paré ran out of oil during a 1537 battle and improvised a soothing cream. This healed wounds quickly and was less painful.
• ❖ Paré came up with a new method of amputation, tying strings around blood vessels instead of cauterising.