Facial reconstruction in Italy during the First World War

Abstract

Background

The field of plastic surgery, and in particular facial reconstruction, advanced rapidly during the First World War, but the Italian contribution is little known.

Methods

This paper explores wartime experience in Italy, with particular reference to the unit of Amedeo Perna in Rome, as illustrated by the diary and photographs taken by Emerin Keene, the daughter of the American Consul-General in Rome in 1918, who worked as a nurse in the Ospedale Stomatoiatrico, located in the Villa Massimo.

Results

The diary of her nursing experience provides an insight into the workings and day-to-day life of the hospital.

Conclusions

Whilst there has been interest in, and publication on developments in Great Britain, France and Germany, no significant review of the Italian experience has been undertaken. This article examines the clinical material described by Emerin Keene and the contributions of other Italian contributors to wartime facial surgery, setting these in the context of developments elsewhere in Europe, but further research on what appears to be extensive Italian work in the First World War seems merited.

Level of Evidence: not ratable

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