This is an antique medical instrument called Carbolic Steam Sprayer that was used in operating rooms in the 1880s It was used to sterilize the air. The maker of the instrument is unknown. This device, used in operating theatres in the 1870s and 1880s, filled the air with a pungent, yellow mist of an antiseptic called carbolic acid. British surgeon Joseph Lister invented it, hoping it would kill airborne bacteria, reducing the chance of infection during surgery. Lister had begun experimenting with carbolic acid in 1865 – applying it directly to wounds, bandages and surgical equipment – after hearing it was used to treat sewage. Infection rates following his operations had dropped dramatically. The spray was less effective than applying carbolic acid directly, and it was unpleasant to use, causing skin and respiratory problems for the surgeons, who were reluctant to use it. However, the benefits of antiseptics were clear, and surgery became much safer. A great piece of Medical equipment history. Measures 9″ tall 4″ diameter and 11-1/2 wide. Does not have the bottle to hold the medicine that gets steamed into the air. Please see photos for details.
Posted in antique | 
Comments Off | May 2nd, 2024
