A Comparative Analysis of Bloodletting Tools: Mokhdea and Mil Nahan in Medical Books of the Islamic Golden Age (8-13 Century)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Instructor of history of medical sciences, Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center (TCMRC), Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran

2 Associate Professor of Traditional Medicine, Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center (TCMRC), Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran

3 Professor of surgery, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium

4 Associate Professor of Health Services Management, Department of Health Services Management, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran

5 Professor, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

10.30476/rhm.2025.104826.1258

Abstract

Understanding surgical instruments throughout history is a fundamental aspect of studying the history of medical science. Gaining insight into the physical characteristics and practical applications of these tools, as well as re-evaluating their designs, can lead to the development of innovative instruments that align with modern technology. This analytical-comparative research employs a comprehensive library-based approach. Hence, it examines various historical documents to compare the concepts of Mokhdea and Mil Nahan, analyzing the use of these similar tools during the significant Islamic period. The findings indicate that there have been numerous instruments that, despite having different names, have served identical purposes throughout the extensive history of surgery. This understanding not only enhances our grasp of surgical history but can also foster improvements and innovations in the design of modern surgical tools. Therefore, exploring these ancient instruments can help us better comprehend the evolution of surgery and its profound impact on contemporary treatment methods, creating a vital bridge between the past and present in medicine.

Highlights

Azam Khosravi (Google Scholar)

Saeed Changizi-Ashtiyani (Google Scholar)

Keywords

References

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Journal of Research on History of Medicine
Volume 15, Issue 1
February 2026
Pages 19-26

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