Abstract

SUSHRUTA SAMHIA - A UNIQUE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF AYURVEDIC SURGERY

*Bagde A.B., Ramteke A.T., Sawant R.S., Bhingare S.D. and Nikumbh M.B.

ABSTRACT

The Sushruta samhita is a representative work of the Dhanwantariya sampradaya (ancient surgical school) of Ayurveda. It is an ancient Ayurvedic text on surgical techniques written by legendary Acharya Sushruta. Acharya Sushruta has a great contribution towards Ayurveda by giving such great literature. His principles, diagnoses and treatment retain their potency and truth even after a couple of millennia. Its importance is all the more great, since it is the only text now available on Shalya Tantra (surgery) most important branch of Ayurveda. It is the most ancient and authoritive document on this branch of medical science not merely of India but also of the whole world. For this credit goes to Kashiraja Divodasa Dhanwantari, Sushruta, Nagaraguna and Chandrata who were the preceptor, composer, redractor and amendor respectively. Acharya Sushruta very beautifully elaborates various surgical procedures like Nasa sandhana, Aushtha Sandhana, Karnasandhana, Siravedha and treatment of Asthibhagna (fractures) and Sandhibhagna (dislocation). Because of seminal and numerous contributions to the science and art of surgery Acharya Sushruta is also known by the title "Father of Surgery." It is being studied since long by all Ayurvedists but very few conceptual works has been carried out on selected part of this samhita. Therefore it becomes very essential to study and understand the various special features mentioned in Sushruta Samhita. This review article deals with the historical study of such great personality of Ayurveda and his unique contribution in the field of Ayurvedic surgery.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Brihattrayee, Sushruta Samhita, Shalya tantra, Father of Surgery.