History of Medical Technology

Study Notes

Medical Technology applies natural, physical, and biological sciences to laboratory procedures, aiding in disease diagnosis and treatment.
The Philippine Medical Technology Act of 1969 (R.A 5527) defines Medical Technology as an auxiliary branch focused on laboratory examinations to assist physicians.

Hippocrates (300 BC - 180 AD): Known as the Father of Medicine; introduced the Hippocratic Oath and the Four Humors theory.
Galen: Greek physician who assessed disorders by measuring body fluids; identified the connection between fluid intake and urine volume.
Vivian Herrick (1500 BC): Identified parasites such as Taenia and Ascaris.
Georg Moritz Ebers (1550 BC): Authored the Ebers Papyrus detailing hookworm infection stages.
Anne Fagelson (14th Century): Notable physician at the University of Bologna, known for employing lab assistants.

Antonie van Leeuwenhoek: Invented and enhanced the compound microscope; first to describe red blood cells and classify bacteria.
Herman Fehling (1848): Developed the first quantitative test for sugar in urine.
John Hutchinson: Created the spirometer for measuring lung capacity.
Jules Herisson: Invented the sphygmomanometer for measuring blood pressure.

11th Century: Medical practitioners began using mechanical techniques and cadavers for anatomical understanding.
18th Century: Advancements in mechanical techniques for therapeutic practices were observed.
19th Century: Physicians integrated machines into diagnostic practices, transforming the field significantly.

Urinalysis noted by various figures over centuries, with Hippocrates advocating urine testing and detecting signs of kidney disease and chronic conditions.
Historical observations reported sweetness in diabetic urine, leading to early diabetes understanding.
Medical techniques evolved through observation and invention, from basic assessments to complex diagnostic devices.