Chicago 07: Murphy Button

The Murphy button, introduced by Dr. Murphy in 1892, was a major breakthrough in intestinal surgery. It allowed operations to be performed quickly and efficiently, reducing the risk of patient shock. The cap of each mushroom-shaped half was stitched to an intestinal opening and the stems were joined. As the sections of intestine healed together, the area directly attached to the metal button decayed, releasing it to be passed.

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