“Ether and chloroform; their discovery and physiological effects.” From The Boston Medical and Surgical Journal; and the Transactions of the American Medical Association, Vol. I.

Boston: David Clapp, 1848. FIRST EDITION TOGETHER. Complete the general title page (Ether and chloroform: a compendium of their history, surgical use, dangers, and discovery). Original blue printed wrappers. An excellent copy. First edition together of the most significant early American papers on anaesthesia. The first part, “Ether and chloroform,” was first printed in the Boston Medical and Surgical Journal six months prior to this printing; the second part, “Anaesthetic agents, their mode of exhibition and physiological effects,” was originally written for the Surgical Committee of the National Medical Convention. This is the first time the two parts were published together.

“The author, for almost forty years the dominant figure in New England surgery, was quick to recognize the value of ether after witnessing Morton’s celebrated demonstration at Massachusetts General Hospital on October 16, 1846. Morton’s plan to patent the new agent and his unwillingness to divulge its composition prevented further experimentation until Bigelow forced the issue. Three weeks later an amputation was performed using the ether, and Morton authorized Bigelow to publish a full account of its use resulting in this fascinating paper, the first published report of the new anesthetic” (Eimas).

Bigelow here discusses the pros and cons of using ether vapors or chloroform comparing these with other anesthetic agents. “Bigelow’s speedy publication of Morton’s discovery, and his subsequent advocacy of ether assured its adoption throughout the civilized world. The above work deals with the priority claims in general and with a defense of Morton’s claim in particular and contains detailed information on their surgical use, dangers and history” (Garrison & Morton).

Garrison & Morton, 5730.