Surgery from the Ayurvedic perspective

t has only been three weeks since my father’s hip surgery. He is doing really well!

Interesting to follow the process of a surgical intervention nowadays and then read the detailed information in the Sushruta Samhita about pre and post surgical care 📚

Hmmh, we could wonder if we are moving backwards. Did you ever receive dietary and lifestyle advice before your surgery? We would love to hear your thoughts on this. 👇

In the Sushruta Samhita, an ancient text on surgery and Ayurvedic medicine, the surgical process is divided into three main stages:

1. Poorva Karma (pre-operative procedures)
2. Pradhana Karma (the main surgical procedure)
3. Paschat Karma (post-operative procedures). Here’s an overview of each stage:

1. Poorva Karma (Pre-operative procedures):

• Proper diagnosis of the condition

• Patient Preparation: Preparing the patient mentally and physically for surgery. This may include counselling, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and treatments to optimize the patient’s health before the procedure.

• Selection of Surgical Technique: Choosing the appropriate surgical technique based on the patient’s condition, the expertise of the surgeon, and other factors.

• Sterilization: Ensuring that surgical instruments, equipment, and the operating environment are sterile.

• Anesthesia: Administering anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the surgery.

2. Pradhana Karma (Main surgical procedure):

• The main surgical procedure itself. Sushruta describes various surgical techniques for different ailments, including incisions, excisions, suturing, and setting fractures.

3. Paschat Karma (Post-operative procedures):

• Wound Care: After surgery, this involves dressing changes, application of medicinal preparations, and monitoring for any signs of complications.

• Pain Management: Providing pain relief to the patient through herbal remedies, dietary modifications, and other Ayurvedic treatments.

• Diet and Lifestyle: Recommending a suitable diet and lifestyle modifications to support recovery and prevent complications. This may include dietary restrictions, rest, and gradual resumption of activities.

• Follow-up Care: Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon or healthcare provider to monitor the patient’s progress, assess wound healing, and any concerns, and adjust the treatment plan.

• Rehabilitation: Depending on the nature of the surgery and the patient’s condition, rehabilitation exercises and therapies may be prescribed to restore function, mobility, and strength.

These stages represent a comprehensive approach to surgical care outlined in the Sushruta Samhita, with a focus on ensuring optimal outcomes for the patient. ❤️❤️❤️

Wow how amazing is the classical Ayurvedic text.

Thank you, Acharya Sushruta 🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️