Wounded WWI soldiers at Neuve Chapelle, France,1915. Several soldiers are seen wearing craniofacial dressings not much different from the dressings as used today.
From Tradition to Innovation
The history of surgical craniofacial (head and face) dressing is deeply intertwined with the development of modern neurosurgery and plastic surgery. While specific techniques have been passed down through generations, there has been little documented change in the materials or methods used—until the introduction of NeoTectus. This article explores the evolution of surgical head dressing, drawing on the pioneering work of Dr. Harvey Cushing and Sir Harold Gillies, and highlights how NeoTectus is redefining the area of postoperative head dressing.
Pioneering Neurosurgery: The Legacy of Dr. Harvey Cushing
At the turn of the 20th century, modern neurosurgery was born under the meticulous hands of Dr. Harvey Cushing, often referred to as the "Father of Neurosurgery." Cushing’s innovations in brain surgery laid the foundation for many of the techniques still in use today. Although specific references to the head dressing techniques he employed are scarce, it is presumed that Cushing initiated and popularized the use of turban-like dressings made from cotton gauze rolls. These dressings were crucial in protecting surgical sites following brain surgeries performed for various neurological conditions, providing both physical protection and a means to control bleeding and prevent infection.
The use of these dressings became even more prevalent during World War I, as the sheer volume of open and penetrating head injuries required effective methods for managing postoperative care. The knowledge gained during this period, particularly in the management of open head injuries, was invaluable and continued to influence neurosurgical practices through World War II and beyond.
The Birth of Modern Plastic Surgery: Sir Harold Gillies' Contributions
Simultaneously, the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery was being shaped by Sir Harold Gillies, known as the "Father of Plastic Surgery." Gillies’ work during World War I, primarily focused on treating soldiers with severe facial injuries, led to significant advancements in surgical techniques and postoperative care. Like Cushing, Gillies’ methods were instrumental in the development of head and face dressing techniques, though specific documentation of these techniques is limited.
Photographs from the WWI era (see above) provide evidence of the continued use of traditional turban-like dressings, similar to those used in neurosurgery, to cover and protect facial wounds. These dressings were vital in managing the complex wounds that characterized many of the injuries treated by Gillies and his contemporaries. The techniques developed during this time have endured, with these dressings still being utilized by modern day’s plastic surgeons following craniofacial trauma reconstruction and cosmetic surgeons following facelift procedures.
NeoTectus: A Modern Revolution in Postoperative Craniofacial Dressing
Despite the advancements in surgical techniques over the past century, the materials and methods used for postoperative head and face dressing have remained unchanged. The traditional turban-like dressings, while effective, have not evolved significantly—until now.
NeoTectus represents a groundbreaking innovation in the field of postoperative care. Developed to address the long-standing shortcomings of traditional dressings (e.g. difficult and time-consuming to apply, painful to wear, fail-prone and unsightly), NeoTectus combines advanced fabric technology with a design that offers convenience to surgeons, superior comfort, support, and protection to patients. Unlike its predecessors, NeoTectus is crafted to meet the specific needs of modern surgical patients, providing a level of care that has been unattainable with older methods.
Conclusion
The history of surgical head dressing is a testament to the enduring legacy of pioneers like Dr. Harvey Cushing and Sir Harold Gillies. Their contributions have shaped the established practices that have stood the test of time. However, as with all fields of medicine, innovation is key to progress. NeoTectus is at the forefront of this evolution, offering a new standard in postoperative craniofacial dressing that rectifies all of the traditional dressing’s untoward deficiencies.