Brief Description

Tapering, shaped, probe-like uterine sound, with flattened end and thumb grip.

History of Object

Included in contents of Dr. James Jamieson's medical bag (registration number 74), who practiced in Warnambool and Melbourne, later lecturing in Obstetrics at Melbourne University. He died in 1916.

Materials and Finishes

Metal (silver plated).

References

AMA Museum catalogue.
Association card: Jamieson, James (Dr.)
Association file.

Brief Description

"Duckbill" vaginal speculum, by Gardner. Metal in W-shape.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 796, no. 3543.

Brief Description

Jackson's vaginal retractor speculum with wood-clad handle.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal and wood.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 803, no. 3572.

Brief Description

Vaginal speculum in the fashion of Cusco's. Hinged finger-grip handles which fold away.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 800, no. 3555.

Brief Description

Four-bladed vaginal speculum in the fashion of Cusco's. Hinged finger-grip handles which fold away (one is missing).

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Brass (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 800, no. 3555.

Brief Description

Barnes' vaginal speculum, which pivots a third-way along blades and is open-ended.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 798, no. 3550.

Brief Description

Barnes' vaginal pseculum, which pivots from base due to action of pivoting wing nut. Open-ended.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 798, no. 3550.

Brief Description

Barnes' vaginal speculum, which pivots from base due to action of winding wing nut. Closed-ended.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Brass (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 798, no. 3550.

Brief Description

Vaucaire's Irrigation vaginal speculum, fully detachable. Closed-ended; wing-nut adjustment.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 813, no. 3600.

Brief Description

Nott's four-bladed vaginal speculum, with side opening and closed end. Double-pivoting, with wing-nut adjustment.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 805, no. 3578.

Brief Description

Set of three graduated sizes, Fergusson's vaginal speculum with angled opening. Tubular, with flared viewing end.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", pp. 801-802.

Brief Description

Fergusson's vaginal speculum with angled opening. Tubular, with flared viewing end.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", pp. 801-802.

Brief Description

Fergusson's vaginal speculum with angled opening, in black celluloid. Tubular, with flared viewing end.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

? Celluloid.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", pp. 801-802.

Brief Description

Four disc-shaped boxwood pessaries with centre hole. Varying sizes.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Boxwood.

References

File: Association File. Fetherston, Dr. R.H.
Catalogue: Maw, S. & Son, 1869. "Book of Illustrations to S. Maw & Son's." p. 83, Fig. 6.

Brief Description

Hewitt's Cradle pessary, for anteversion, in plastic or other hardened substance. Consists of two curved loops with thick join.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

? Plastic.

References

File: Association File. Fetherston, Dr. R.H.
Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1040, No. 1040/1.

Brief Description

Seven intra-uterine stem pessaries, in assorted sizes. Long stem attached to flattened egg-shaped head with hole.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Copper, metal and ?lead.

References

File: Association File. Fetherston, Dr. R.H.
Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1034, nos. 1034/8 & 12.

Brief Description

Coglan's Uterine Sound, by James fo Melbourne, featuring blade projection just beneath tip. Notched measurements on stme. Short wood-clad handle.

History of Object

Probably belonged to R.T. Tracy.

Materials and Finishes

Metal and wood (stained and polished).

References

File: Association File. Fetherston, Dr. R.H.
Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1006, nos. 1006/1-3.

Brief Description

Collins' Uterine dilating forceps by Mayer and Meltzer, with double-crossing handles, and blades which are slightly curved upwards.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal.

References

File: Association File. Fetherston, Dr. R.H.
Catalogue: Mayer & Meltzer, 1900. "A Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Hospital Requirements", p. 294, no. 5367.

Brief Description

Simpson's Uterine Dilator, bivalve with screw adjustment from handle base.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal.

References

File: Association File. Fetherston, Dr. R.H.
Catalogue: Weiss, 1863.
Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 982, no. 982/2.

Brief Description

Uterine polypus forceps with curved head, fenestrated blades and long pivoting handles.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal.

References

File: Association File. Fetherston, Dr. R.H.
Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd, 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 570, no. 570/9.

Brief Description

Uterine probe with one end slightly bulbed on curved shaft. Other end notched and bent (perhaps should be encased in handle fitting?).

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal.

References

File: Association File. Fetherston, Dr. R.H.
Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1002, no. 1002/4.

Brief Description

Set of three: Fergusson's vaginal glass speculum with black coating, angled opening and flared viewing end. In black conical case with hinged lid, by Mayer & Meltzer.

History of Object

N.B.: two of the specula were dropped during preparation for Ven. South Exhibition, August 1988, and were shattered.

Materials and Finishes

Glass (coated), cardboard, cloth, paper, velvet and metal.

References

File: Association File. Fetherston, Dr. R.H.
Catalogues.

Brief Description

Laminaria tent, being a dried kelp rod with central hole and thread tied through.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Kelp and cotton.

References

File: Association File. Fetherston, Dr. R.H.
Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1009, no. 1009/6.

Brief Description

Bantock's Intra-Uterine stem pessary (minus introducer). Mushroom-shaped head with shaped stem and spreading base arms.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Vulcanite OR rubber.

References

File: Association File. Fetherston, Dr. R.H.
Catalogue: Mayer & Meltzer, 1900. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 322, Fig. 5763.

Brief Description

Three Sims' uterine sound, consisting of tapering and curving stem with bulbed point, and disc handle.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 781, no. 3505.

Brief Description

Five Sims' uterine sounds, tapers near bulbed point, and has violin-shaped handle.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 781, no. 3505.

Brief Description

Hard-rubber or synthetic black pessary, in curved-corner rectangular shape.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

?Rubber/?Synthetic.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1906, pp. 818-824.

Brief Description

Vaginal douche for hot water douching (Heisswasserspüler). The "Colonia" consists of black plastic chamber with outlet projection; glass tubing passes throughout. Includes box and instructions (instructions and labels are in German).

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Plastic, glass, cardboard and paper (printed).

References

Brief Description

Urethral dilator or forceps with sliding disc adjustment.

History of Object

University of Melbourne Collection.

Materials and Finishes

Metal and ebony.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", pp. 642-43.

Brief Description

Baker Brown's cautery iron for ovariotomy, has turned wooden handle and axe-shaped head.

History of Object

University of Melbourne Collection.

Materials and Finishes

Iron and wood.

References

Brief Description

Boxed set of eleven vulcanite cerivcal dilators; straight with indented handle - from 7mm to 27mm diameters.

History of Object

Straightness suggests they may not be cervical dilators after all?

Materials and Finishes

?Vulcanite, wood (varnished) and metal.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", pp. 978-9.

Brief Description

Two intra-uterine stems. Brass-plated metal, nail-shaped with close-spiral stem and disc head.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Brief Description

Eight intra-uterine stems. Brass-plated metal, nail-shaped with close-spiral stem and solid disc head with circular perforations.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Brief Description

Stainless steel intra-uterine stem, nail-shaped with close-spiral stem and solid disc head with small circular perforations.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Stainless steel.

References

Brief Description

Metal intra-uterine stem, nail-shaped with close-spiral stem and disc head which has broken off.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Brief Description

Glass and plastic intra-uterine stem, nail-shaped with narrow glass stem and thick black plastic disc lead.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Glass and plastic.

References

Brief Description

Vaginal pipe or douche, with syringe-plunger action; pierced at nozzle. Cylindrical glass with cork stopper. In blue cylinder.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Glass, cork, cotton and cardboard.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", pp. 936-37.

Brief Description

Hegar's set of 10 metal cervix dilators, ranging in size from 2 to 20. Held in wooden case.

History of Object

Set of dilators belonged to Dr Athol Blaubaum and Dr Rex Vivian Blaubaum, who were both ENT surgeons. The set was donated to the Medical History Museum by Ian Vivian Blaubaum in 1994.

Materials and Finishes

Metal, wood and bone.

References

Brief Description

Fergusson's vaginal glass speculum with black coating. Contained in own conical, hinged case with black leatherette coating.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Glass (coated), wood, leatherette, velvet and metal.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 801, no. 3559.

Brief Description

Auvard's vaginal speculum for operating with continuous irrigation.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Stainless steel.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1020, no. 1020/5-6.

Brief Description

Two sets of Reid's cervical-uterine dilators by Mayer and Meltzer. Handpiece with 5 screw-on, varied-size heads. Each set in fitted, lined case with leatherette outer.

History of Object

Set 1: University of Melbourne Collection.

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated), wood, velvet, satin and leatherette.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 756, no. 3374.

Brief Description

Set of eight graduated Meadow's plated-metal intra-uterine stems with introducer instrument, in case.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated), wood, velvet and leatherette)

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 815, no. 31613 (but not glass).

Brief Description

French model external and internal pelvimeter graduated to 50 and 20 centimeters, by Hatrick.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 937, no. 937/4.

Brief Description

Two Goodell's uterine dilators; bivalve, parallel action, all metal. (.1) came with own chamois leather pouch.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated), leather (chamois) and tape (cotton).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 977, no. 977/3.

Brief Description

Sims' uterine dilator; trivalve screw-action.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 982, no. 982/1.

Brief Description

Two 3-bladed French pattern/Allingham's? vaginal specula.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1032, no. 1032/5.

Brief Description

4-bladed cervical dilator, similar to both Frommer's and Preiss' with modifications.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 918, nos. 918/1 and 918/2.

Brief Description

2-bladed vaginal retractor with screw and fly-nut adjustments.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Brief Description

Fergusson's (?) vaginal speculum with attached handle; has fenestrated top.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1025.

Brief Description

Sims' single duckbill vaginal speculum with ebony-clad handle.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Brass (plated) and ebony.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1032, no. 1032/4.

Brief Description

Bozeman-Fritsch's catheter for washing out the uterus - assortment of 5 sizes.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 969, no. 969/4-5.

Brief Description

Four Doléris' dilating catheters for washing out the uterus.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 970, no. 970/6.

Brief Description

Uterine dressing forceps, long-stemmed and loop handles, with fenestrated and hollow head.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

[not stated]

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 988, no. 988/5.

Brief Description

Uterine dressing forceps, angled midway along handles, loop handles, gripping head.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 990, no. 990/2.

Brief Description

Simon's ovoid uterine scoop, with ebony handle. Scoop size 4.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated) and ebony.

References

Catalogue: Arnold and Sons, 1885: p. 377, Fig. 1144.

Brief Description

Improved uterine curette with ebony handle.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal and ebony.

References

Catalogue: Arnold and Sons, 1885: p. 375, Fig. 1128.

Brief Description

Assortment of eight, all-metal uterine curettes. Varying widths and lengths.

History of Object

Item (.2) had a tag with "6" written on it.

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Brief Description

Gynaecological retractor, with wide, curved blade and ring-and-loop handle (for hysterectomy?).

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Brief Description

Combined blunt hook and gynaecological retractor. Retractor is double-hooked. By Mayer & Meltzer.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1060.

Brief Description

Playfair's aluminium bulb-end probe for uterus and vagina.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Aluminium and metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1002, no. 1002/4.

Brief Description

Spencer Wells' blunt-ended pedicle needle, by Mayer and Meltzer.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1066, no. 1066/3.

Brief Description

Uterine and vaginal scissors, angled-on-flat, with blade guard on point.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1004, no. 1004/11.

Brief Description

Proctoscope in perspex with metal obturator. Has handle which doubles as a channel for illumination.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Perspex and metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd. 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p.920.

Brief Description

Auvard's vaginal speculum for operating with continuous irrigation, having slide-off ball weight and side perforations.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1020, on. 1020/5-6.

Brief Description

Set of five glass Sims' vaginal dilators. In five diameters, from very slim to stout.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Glass.

References

Catalogue: Arnold and Sons, Ltd., 1885: p. 348, Fig. 1013.

Brief Description

Ferguson's vaginal speculum, black covered with light brown interior.

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Plastic (?).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1025.

Brief Description

18 carat gold intra-uterine stem, somewhat like Wright's expanding type. Has coil spring from fenestrated disc base to mid-way along stem, which splays and is gold-plated copper.

History of Object

Came to jewellers among jewellery being sold by an elderly lady who wished to sell her gold for the weight price.

Materials and Finishes

Gold (18 carat) and copper.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 1036, no. 1036/1.

Brief Description

Uterine dressing forceps.

History of Object

From registration number 3455.
See also registration numbers 3454 to 3477 (found in same location).

Materials and Finishes

Steel.

References

See also registration numbers 3454 to 3477 (found in same location).

Brief Description

Forceps, similar to Heywood Smith's ovum forceps.

History of Object

From registration number 3455.
See also registration numbers 3454 to 3477 (found in same location).

Materials and Finishes

Steel.

References

Catalogue: "Surgical Instruments: A Reference List", Allen & Hanburys [year?]: p. 790.
See also registration numbers 3454 to 3477 (found in same location).

Brief Description

Forceps, possiubly Godson's Uterine tumour forceps; with ratchet mechanism.

History of Object

From registration number 3455.
See also registration numbers 3454 to 3477 (found in same location).

Materials and Finishes

Steel (nickel plated).

References

Catalogue: Arnold and Sons, 1885. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments", p. 369.
See also registration numbers 3454 to 3477 (found in same location).

Brief Description

Cervical dilator (Allingham's? Frommer's?) - screw operation spreads eight arms.

History of Object

From registration number 3455.
See also registration numbers 3454 to 3477 (found in same location).

Materials and Finishes

Steel (nickel plated).

References

Catalogue: Down Bros.
Catalogue: Mayer Phelps (1955).
See also registration numbers 3454 to 3477 (found in same location).

Brief Description

Box of twenty-six uterine dilators, sizes marked on handles: 3-28. Sizes in millimetres?

History of Object

Materials and Finishes

Vulcanite and wood.

References

Brief Description

Brewer's vaginal speculum.

History of Object

Owned by Dr. J.F. Rutter.

Materials and Finishes

Steel (nickel-plated).

References

Brief Description

Sim's duckbill vaginal speculum.

History of Object

Owned by Dr. J.F. Rutter.

Materials and Finishes

Steel (chrome-plated).

References

Brief Description

Brewer's vaginal speculum.

History of Object

Owned by Dr. J.F. Rutter.

Materials and Finishes

Steel (nickel-plated).

References

Brief Description

Sim's curette.

History of Object

Owned by Dr. J.F. Rutter.

Materials and Finishes

Steel (nickel-plated).

References

Brief Description

Set of six double-ended cervical dilators. Sizes are: (.1) 5,6 and 6,7; (.2) 7,8 and 8,9; (.3) 9,10 and 10,11; (.4) 11,12 and 12,13; (.5) 15,16 and 16,17; (.6) 17,18 and 18,19. In khaki pouch.

History of Object

Owned by Dr. J.F. Rutter.

Materials and Finishes

Metal (nickel-plated) and khaki drill (?).

References

Brief Description

Set of six double-ended cervical dilators. Sizes are: (.1) 19,20,21 and 21,22,23; (.2) 23,24,25 and 25,26,27; (.3) 27,28,29 and 29,30,31; (.4) 31,32,33 and 33,34,35; (.5) 35,36,37 and 37,38,39; (.6) 39,40,41 and 41,42,43. In khaki pouch.

History of Object

Owned by Dr. J.F. Rutter.

Materials and Finishes

Metal (nickel-plated) and khaki drill (?).

References

Brief Description

"The Crystal Douche" aseptic douche with japanned frame, 2 glass vaginal pipes, vulcanite vaginal pipe and rectal pipe, vulcanite needle with bulbous point. Missing glass reservoir and rubber tubing. The white-painted frame has a scale in pints for the liquid. Part of the product box, the "Directions for use" was included with the douche set.

History of Object

Donated by Dr. Jean Barrie.

Materials and Finishes

Metal, glass, vulcanite and cardboard.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd., 1906. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances", p. 932, no. 402.

Brief Description

Uterine Caustic Holder comprising silver-plated palladium quill with inserted grey caustic stone, on attached cylindrical black vulcanite handle with hexagonal grip and moulded tip. Also has silver-plated quill cap.

History of Object

This item was originally donated to the Medical Society of Victoria (which later became part of the Victorian Branch of the Australian Medical Association). The A.M.A. donated its historical collection of documents and artifacts to the University of Melbourne's Medical History Museum in 1994.

Materials and Finishes

Caustic stone, metal, silver plate and vulcanite.

References

Brief Description

Braun's intra-uterine syringe with glass barrel, metal plunger and Hoffman's pipe with fabric-covered washer.

History of Object

This item was originally donated to the Medical Society of Victoria (which later became part of the Victorian Branch of the Australian Medical Association). The A.M.A. donated its historical collection of documents and artifacts to the University of Melbourne's Medical History Museum in 1994.

Materials and Finishes

Metal and fabric.

References

Catalogue: Down Bros. Ltd. 1889. p.248.
Catalogue: Arnold and Sons, 1895. "Instrument Catalogue". p.444.

Brief Description

Vaginal syringe consisting of glass barrel with rounded tip and liquid holes, glass plunger, cotton piston and cork stopper with wooden top.

History of Object

This item was originally donated to the Medical Society of Victoria (which later became part of the Victorian Branch of the Australian Medical Association). The A.M.A. donated its historical collection of documents and artifacts to the University of Melbourne's Medical History Museum in 1994.

Materials and Finishes

Glass, cotton, cork, wood and cardboard.

References

Catalogue: Allen & Hanburys, Ltd. "Surgical Instruments". London, p.1158.

Brief Description

"Automatic Caustic Holder" comprising silver-plated palladium quill for inserting caustic stone, with attached cylindrical moulded handle and quill cover. Also four coloured glass tubes (black, blue, green, brown) holding coloured caustic stones.

History of Object

This item was originally donated to the Medical Society of Victoria (which later became part of the Victorian Branch of the Australian Medical Association). The A.M.A. donated its historical collection of documents and artifacts to the University of Melbourne's Medical History Museum in 1994.

Materials and Finishes

Cardboard, metal, glass and caustic stone.

References

Brief Description

Set of three Fergusson's vaginal specula, silver, cylindrical, with angled narrower opening and top protruding lip, in cylindrical blue leather case with purple velvet lining.

History of Object

This item was originally donated to the Medical Society of Victoria (which later became part of the Victorian Branch of the Australian Medical Association). The A.M.A. donated its historical collection of documents and artifacts to the University of Melbourne's Medical History Museum in 1994.

This set of specula originally belonged to Dr. Archibald Macdonald.

Materials and Finishes

Silver, leather, wood and metal.

References

Brief Description

Set of 12 double-ended metal Hegar dilators, sized from 26 to 5; nine of these appear to be of original set. One sized 8.7 does not fit box; one sized 6.5 is not a good fit and another duplicates "6". Wooden container has been grooved and shaped to hold set.

History of Object

Donated by Dr. A.D. McCutcheon; item belonged to his father.

Materials and Finishes

Metal and wood.

References

Catalogue: Mayer & Meltzer, 1900. "Surgical Instruments". p.293.

Brief Description

Enamelled iron douche reservoir, white with blue rim, with black vulcanite attachment, stopcock and vaginal attachment.

History of Object

Donation from Julia Griffiths (Department of Microbiology) from mother's home.

Materials and Finishes

Iron (enamelled), hemp and vulcanite.

References

Catalogue: Allen & Hanburys Ltd. 1938. "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments..." p.865.

Brief Description

Greenhalgh's hysterotome (also known as metrotome or uterotome) in metal with screw-operated retaining mechanism; has a turned, ridged ebonite handle, disc-shaped guard, a long flat stem which narrows to form a long thin end with a blunt probe-like point. Concealed within the stem are two thin narrow blades which are activated by pushing against the guard and pulling on the handle.

History of Object

From accompanying card James Young Simpson (1811-1870) was the first to devise the hysterotome in 1845. Scultetus in 1653 had illustrated a similar instrument but gave no description of its use. It was designed to incise the cervis uteri of patients complaining of dysmenorrhea and sterility. It became widely used over a 30-40 year period, but gradually fell into disuse when it was shown that following incision of the cervix, there was a decided tendency to abortion.

Loan item: Barrie Thompson collection.

Materials and Finishes

Metal (nickel-plated) and Bakerlite.

References

Brief Description

Tubular clear glass speculum with posterior lip longer than the anterior; the vulval end is flanged.

History of Object

See also registration L235.

Loan item: Barrie Thompson Collection.

Materials and Finishes

Glass.

References

Brief Description

Tubular opaque white glass speculum with posterior lip longer than the anterior; the vulval end is flanged.

History of Object

See also registration number L234.

Loan item: Barrie Thompson collection.

Materials and Finishes

White glass.

References

Brief Description

Large tubulra glass speculum, coated in quicksilver, then rubber which has been varnished. The posterior lip of the speculum is longer than the anterior; the vulval end is flanged.

History of Object

"This speculum dates from the early centuries of the Christian era. The earliest dilator so far known was discovered at Pompeii, which was destroyed A.D. 79. The Fergusson speculum, which enjoyed popular use, is to a design or modification by Sir William Fergusson (1808-1877) in 1870. He refers to this instrument in his writings as "the speculum that I devised". However, about 1855, Robert Fergusson (1799-1865), the first Professor of Obstetric Medicine to King's College, began to use a straight glass speculum.the origins of the tubular glass speculum with silvered inside is somewhat uncertain, but evidence points to Robert Fergusson as the inventor. His instrument, however, has not survived (Thompson 1938). The design by William Fergusson is coated with quicksilver and covered by india-rubber, which is thoroughly varnished. The mirrored glass is an excellent reflector of light and it was said that none compared in elegance, cleanliness and utility (Thomas 1880)."

Loan item: Barrie Thompson collection.

Materials and Finishes

Glass, quicksilver and india-rubber (varnished).

References

Thomas, T.G. (1880), "A Practical Treatise on the Diseases of Women." Lea, Philadelphia. pp. 93-4.
Thompson, C.J.S. (1938), "V. The Vaginal Dilator or Speculum." British Journal of Surgery, XXXVI, 102:232.

Brief Description

Light-weight vaginal speculum made from 2.5 medium wire which has been shaped to form two opposing blades joined by another piece of wire. Each blade consists of an outer frame of wire and a central piece of wire. On the larger blade, the central wire is convex and on the smaller blade it is flattened, mirroring the shape of the frame. The two blades can be brought together by thumb and finger pressure.

History of Object

Loan item: Barrie Thompson collection.

Materials and Finishes

Plated metal (possibly chrome-plated brass).

References

Brief Description

Vaginal speculum which appears to be fashioned from a spoon in the manner of James Marion Sims' prototype. Speculum consists of a single handle and a single blade which is made from the bowl of the spoon but shaped so it is more concave. The handle has a slight curve to it.

History of Object

James Marion Sims (1813-1883) was a graduate of Jefferson Medical College (1853). His speculum is still in common use today; he devised it by chance in 1845. Sims states in "The Story of My Life" that when journeying to visit a patient, finding he had forgotten his speculum, stopped at a store and bought a long pewter gravy spoon. By bending each end backwards at right angles, he [improvised] an instrument that he found answered the purpose excellently. When it was first manufactured it was single-bladed, made more concave than the spoon bowl, but he soon directed tat a second blade be added at right angles as he found that after introduction the second blade, like the bent handle of the spoon, provided a better handle. Sims also hit upon the peculiar lateral position (illustrated) which he found more convenient for his speculum. Sims moved to New York in 1853 and established the State Hospital for women in 1855."

Loan item: Barrie Thompson collection.

Materials and Finishes

Metal (plated).

References

Thompson, C.J.S. (1938) "V. The vaginal Dilator and Speculum". British Journal of Surgery. XXVI. 102:232.

Brief Description

Sims' vaginal speculum consisting of two elongated concave blades, one larger than the other, joined by a handle (also concave). The blades are at right angles to the handle. Speculum is made of chrome-plated brass.

History of Object

James Marion Sims (1813-1883) was a graduate of Jefferson Medical College (1853). His speculum is still in common use today; he devised it by chance in 1845. Sims states in "The Story of My Life" that when journeying to visit a patient, finding he had forgotten his speculum, stopped at a store and bought a long pewter gravy spoon. By bending each end backwards at right angles, he [improvised] an instrument that he found answered the purpose excellently. When it was first manufactured it was single-bladed, made more concave than the spoon bowl, but he soon directed tat a second blade be added at right angles as he found that after introduction the second blade, like the bent handle of the spoon, provided a better handle. Sims also hit upon the peculiar lateral position (illustrated) which he found more convenient for his speculum. Sims moved to New York in 1853 and established the State Hospital for women in 1855."

Loan item: Barrie Thompson collection.

Materials and Finishes

References

Thompson, C.J.S. (1938) "V. The vaginal Dilator and Speculum". British Journal of Surgery. XXVI. 102:232.

Brief Description

Three different-sized cervical dilators made of ebonite. Dilators originally came from a set of 25. They are solid and elongated with a blunted point at one end and a cut-away section at the other. Diameters range from 1 cm (.1), 1.5 cm (.2) and 2 cm (.3). (.2) has a slight bow to it; it is unclear whether this is by design.

History of Object

Loan item: Barrie Thompson collection.

Materials and Finishes

Ebonite.

References

Brief Description

Uterine dilator with metal handles and three long narrow blades. Handles each have two lines of indentations on the outer side and are joined across the top by a screw and key which when tightened causes the blades to open.

History of Object

Loan item: Barrie Thompson.

Materials and Finishes

Steel (nickel-plated).

References

Brief Description

Female douche syringe: has a curved vulcanite nozzle with a slight bulbous end. Nozzle is attached to vulcanite ferrule by a screw mechanism. The plunger has a circular finger loop and plunger stem with two rubber stoppers. The barrel is made of glass and the stopper of vulcanite.

History of Object

Loan item: Barrie Thompson collection.

Materials and Finishes

Vulcanite, glass and rubber.

References

Brief Description

Chamber's protected tenaculum; has a cross-hatched ebonite handle. Attached to the handle is a long narrow stem ending in a sharp retractable hook. The hook rests on a flat metal bed with a hole for the point. At the other end of the instrument near the handle is a round lever with a sliding lock which when released causes the lever to open, which in turn causes the hook to retract.

History of Object

Tenacula were used for drawing down the cervix.

Loan item: Barrie Thompson collection.

Materials and Finishes

Metal (nickel-plated).

References