Surgical Probe

Creator

Donor

Westchester Medical Society

Preview

Identifier

2015.1.46

Date Created

c.1800's

Physical Dimensions

.8"-by-8"

Description

A probe was commonly used along with a director (a tool used to direct another surgical tool to a location that is out of sight) or surgical scoop. As there was limited knowledge of human anatomy in the 18th and 19th centuries, probes were used to examine wounds. A probe would often be used to assist a surgical director while treating gunshot wounds, as it helped to accurately determine the location of the bullet.