Advanced archaeological technology has brought to light the intricate design and craftsmanship of Roman surgical instruments used 2,000 years ago. Researchers utilized a CT scanner to examine six medical implements, including a bronze scalpel handle that was once employed in surgical procedures.

The study was conducted at the SHArD 3D Lab at the University of Exeter, focusing on a bronze scalpel handle, two surgical probes, a spoon, and two needles. These artifacts, maintained by the Devon and Exeter Medical Heritage Trust (DEMHT), were originally unearthed 125 years ago at a site along the River Walbrook in London, renowned for its well-preserved Roman tools and objects.

Rebecca Flemming, Leventis Professor of Ancient Greek Scientific and Technological Thought, spearheaded the research. She highlighted the advantages of modern technology in exploring ancient artifacts. New technologies allow us to investigate ancient objects in innovative and exciting ways, uncovering much more about their design, manufacture, and use, said Professor Flemming, based in Exeter’s Department of Classics, Ancient History, Religion, and Theology.

The CT scans revealed the meticulous craftsmanship involved in creating the socket where the iron scalpel blade was originally inserted into the bronze handle. These intricate designs not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal but also had practical purposes, such as facilitating the replacement of worn blades. While only the bronze components have survived, ancient Greek and Roman medical texts provide insights into how these instruments were used in surgical procedures.

Professor Flemming explained that Roman surgeons would have used the scalpel for various operations and therapeutic procedures like bloodletting. The probes were likely employed for exploratory purposes, such as examining wounds, fistulas, and fractures, and for cleaning earwax. The spoon probably served to mix medications, while the needles were used for stitching wounds or securing bandages.

Detail of a Roman scalpel
Detail of a Roman scalpel. Credit: University of Exeter

Megan Woolley, DEMHT coordinator, expressed enthusiasm about the findings. It’s fascinating to discover more about the material in our collection. Having models of historical objects means people can handle them and help us learn much more about how they were used.

The project was made possible by the University’s 3D Digital Science, Heritage, and Archaeology Lab (SHArD 3D), which opened last year with £900,000 in funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council’s Creative Research Capabilities scheme. SHArD 3D, the first microCT facility led by humanities in the southwest, enables researchers to create non-destructive 3D scans of archaeological and cultural artifacts.

The CT scanner produced detailed 3D models of the instruments at a resolution of 0.05mm. Using its X-ray capabilities, researchers could peer beneath corroded surface layers to examine the original materials. These scans will allow for the production of exact replicas via 3D printing, which can be used for educational purposes and public engagement.

Dr. Carly Ameen, a lecturer in Bioarchaeology in the Department of Archaeology and History and director of the lab, emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary research. Bringing scientific techniques to address historical remains and putting those data in conversation with other evidence is crucial for developing our knowledge of the past. That’s where the SHArD 3D Lab can make a genuine impact, and we look forward to future collaborations in this field, she said.

Professor Flemming added, I am interested in ancient medical practices and how the Roman Empire spread similar surgical instruments across its territories, from Britain to Syria. This project shows the potential of combining heritage organizations like DEMHT with SHArD 3D’s technologies to explore shared questions and goals.

SOURCES

University of Exeter

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