The basilyst -- an old obstetric instrument

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The basilyst — an old obstetric instrument

Owner:

Professor Guy Maddern, Department of Surgery TQEH.

Material:

Metal & wooden handle 19^thcentury.

Usage:

19^th century “Basilyst”. Used to perforate and thus collapse the cranium of a still-born foetus which was causing obstructed delivery.

19^th century “Basilyst”. (with 10 cent coin to indicate scale).

Instrument open, showing the cutting edge (lower blade in the photo), & screw stop to adjust opening

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