In Diário de Aveiro by Dr. Luís Monteiro, University Professor and General Practitioner, 04.12.2024
“The First World War was one of the greatest conflicts in history, not only because of its devastating consequences, but also because it led to significant innovations in medicine. The shock of war led health professionals to adapt and evolve their practices, generating advances that have shaped modern medicine.
Among the notable advances was the introduction of new surgical techniques, such as debridement, which helped clean contaminated wounds and prevent infection. Doctors began to use modern anesthetics and to develop blood transfusion techniques, which were fundamental to saving lives. In addition, the war boosted medical specialization, leading to the training of doctors dedicated exclusively to the treatment of combat wounds, resulting in more effective trauma management.
From this historical context comes Skope – Museum of Medicine and Health, which has just opened its doors. Located in Quinta de Aradas, in Aveiro, in a 19th century house, this private museum, the result of the collection of the Portuguese doctor and collector Dr. Hermes de Oliveira Castanhas de Aveiro, has the mission of promoting knowledge about the historical heritage of Medicine and educating about health. Skope narrates the plural history of medicine, offering a space rich in knowledge.
Among the many facets that the museum presents, I would highlight the evolution of medical techniques that emerged from the First World War. The urgent need to treat wounded soldiers resulted in innovations that have had a lasting impact on current practices.
At Skope, visitors can explore exhibits that reveal this evolution, with wartime surgical equipment contrasted with more recent innovations. The experience is enriched by accounts from doctors and nurses who served on the front line, providing a humanized glimpse into the transformations in medicine.
In addition to the war, the museum highlights other relevant themes, such as the development of vaccines and antibiotics – advances that revolutionized the treatment of infections and improved public health.
The Skope – Museum of Medicine and Health is not just a place for history lovers. It is an educational space that invites the general public to reflect on the ongoing impact of medical innovations and the importance of health education. Through interactive and informative exhibitions, the museum positions itself as a meeting point between the past and the present, allowing everyone to better understand the history of medicine and its relevance today.
I recommend you visit the Museum of Medicine and Health because you will be inspired to value the lessons of the past and how they influence the future of health. Come and explore this unique space and discover the many stories that medicine has to tell.”