Lewis A. Sayre and Lessons in Orthopedic Innovation From 170 Years Ago.

Abstract

Lewis Albert Sayre (1820-1900) is one of the key figures in the history of American orthopedic surgery who left an indelible mark on the field. Sayre dedicated much of his career to teaching and practicing orthopedics in New York City and is considered to be one of the "fathers" of orthopedics in America. Sayre's career was defined by his development of novel, innovative treatments to attempt to improve the lives of his patients. Two of the treatments he is most well-known for developing are "exsection of the hip" for treating "Morbus Coxarius" and the plaster of Paris jacket used for treating spinal deformities caused by Pott's disease or scoliosis. Although Sayre's developments are no longer used today, examining them can help us to reflect on the orthopedic principles he sought to apply in the 19th Century as well as how Sayre's treatments have shaped the interventions that we use to care for patients today.