Charles McBurney (surgeon)

Charles McBurney (1845–1913) was an influential American surgeon best known for describing the clinical sign for appendicitis, known as McBurney's point. His contributions to the field of surgery, particularly in the diagnosis and treatment of appendicitis, have had a lasting impact on medical practice.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Charles McBurney was born in 1845 in New York City. He pursued his medical education at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York, where he graduated in 1866. Following his graduation, McBurney continued to develop his surgical skills and knowledge, quickly establishing himself as a skilled surgeon.

Career[edit | edit source]

Throughout his career, McBurney made significant contributions to the field of surgery. He was particularly interested in abdominal surgery and is most renowned for his work on appendicitis. In 1889, he described the point over the right side of the abdomen, now known as McBurney's point, which is tender in cases of appendicitis. This discovery greatly improved the diagnosis of appendicitis and is still used today as a critical diagnostic tool.

McBurney was a member of several professional organizations and served as the president of the American Surgical Association. He was also a professor of surgery at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he educated many future surgeons.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Charles McBurney's legacy in the medical field is significant. His work on appendicitis, particularly the identification of McBurney's point, has saved countless lives by enabling the early diagnosis and treatment of this condition. He is also remembered for his contributions to surgical techniques and his role as an educator.