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What was the longest surgery in history?

Published in Medical History 1 min read

The longest surgery in history is reported to have lasted an astounding 96 hours.

This incredible operation took place from February 4th to February 8th, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. The patient was Mrs. Gertrude Levandowski. The surgical team worked tirelessly to remove a massive ovarian cyst. During the course of the operation, Mrs. Levandowski's weight dramatically decreased from 280 kg (approximately 616 lbs or 44 stone) to 140 kg (approximately 308 lbs or 22 stone).

While this record highlights medical endurance, it's important to note that surgical techniques and technologies have vastly improved since 1951. Such prolonged surgeries are now exceptionally rare, with modern medicine focusing on less invasive procedures and more efficient surgical methods. This means that while documented, a similar surgery of this length is unlikely to occur given advancements in medical procedures.

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