Conventional care of wounded in Susruta Samhita—A Review

Abstract

Wound healing is a physiological process and there are various supportive aids to speedy healing. Acharya Susruta has given due importance to explain about the proper care of a wounded patient irrespective of the cause of wound either surgery or trauma. Injury is a public health problem of enormous magnitude and surgery is another common cause creating the burden of wounds. Statistical data regarding the complications of wound healing and infections of wound is so alarming that there arises a need for retrospection into the conventional concepts of care of a wounded person. Optimal management of the wounded patient is essential as a prophylaxis to surgical site infections and post traumatic complications. The general practitioners with expertise and experience who are an integral part of providing the essential care should appreciate the integrity of a science like Ayurveda and also promote the ideas incorporated in the age old compendiums. Careful management of the wound post traumatically or post operatively is an important part of post wound recovery of the patient. Current care of wounded must be appraised and reassessed for appropriateness and effectiveness. Nutritional status, psychological well-being, environmental and personal hygiene has been long ago recognised as essential in improving the quality of life of the wounded. This article is an attempt to collect and validate these concepts mentioned in Vranitopasaneeya Adhyaya of Susruta.