How did Joesph Lister improve the survival rate of his patients?

Joseph Lister was a British surgeon and a pioneer of antiseptic surgery. His work significantly improved the survival rates of his patients, especially those undergoing major surgeries, by introducing aseptic techniques and promoting the use of carbolic acid as a disinfectant. Here's how Lister's innovations contributed to improved patient survival:

1. Antiseptic Techniques:

Lister developed a comprehensive approach to sterilizing the surgical environment, instruments, and dressings, known as antiseptic surgery. This included:

- Washing hands and surgical instruments: Lister insisted on thorough hand washing and the use of carbolic acid to sterilize instruments before and during surgeries.

- Carbolic acid spray: He introduced the use of a carbolic acid spray in the operating room to kill microorganisms in the air and reduce the risk of infection.

2. Use of Carbolic Acid:

- Lister discovered that carbolic acid, a powerful antiseptic, was effective in preventing infection in wounds. He used carbolic acid-soaked dressings to cover surgical wounds, preventing bacterial contamination.

3. Ligature of Arteries:

- Lister developed a technique called "ligature of arteries" to control bleeding during surgery. This involved tying off blood vessels instead of cauterizing them, which reduced the risk of infection.

4. Improved Wound Management:

- Lister introduced the use of clean, absorbent dressings and proper wound drainage techniques to promote faster healing and prevent infection.

5. Hospital Hygiene:

- He emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean hospital environment, including proper ventilation, sewage systems, and regular cleaning.

Lister's dedication to hygiene and antiseptic principles greatly reduced post-operative infections, leading to improved survival rates for patients who underwent surgical procedures. His work revolutionized surgical practices and laid the foundation for modern sterile surgical techniques that are still widely used today.