All Time 10s Season 4 Episode 15 10 Accidental Medical Discoveries
- August 25, 2016
All Time 10s is back with another fascinating episode that takes a look at some of the most amazing accidental medical discoveries ever made. In this episode, viewers will learn about 10 groundbreaking medical discoveries that were made by accident and that have changed the way we think about medicine today.
The episode first explores the discovery of penicillin, one of the most important accidental discoveries in medical history. Viewers will find out how Alexander Fleming came across this life-saving medication after accidentally allowing a mold to grow on one of his petri dishes.
Next, the episode delves into the discovery of anesthesia, which has been critical in making surgery possible. Viewers will learn how a dentist named William Morton accidentally discovered the anesthetic properties of ether while trying to find an alternative to nitrous oxide for his patients.
The episode also explores the discovery of insulin, which has made a huge difference in the lives of millions of people living with diabetes. Viewers will learn about Frederick Banting and Charles Best, who stumbled upon this life-saving medication while conducting experiments on dogs.
Another discovery the episode covers is that of the X-ray, which has been crucial in the field of medical imaging. Viewers will find out how Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered this radiation while experimenting with cathode rays and the impact it had on medical diagnosis and treatment.
The episode also takes a look at the discovery of the smallpox vaccine, which led to the eradication of this deadly disease. Viewers will learn about Edward Jenner, who noticed that milkmaids who had contracted cowpox did not develop smallpox and used this observation to develop the first vaccine.
Another significant accidental discovery covered in the episode is the use of pacemakers to regulate heartbeats. Viewers will find out how a doctor named Ake Senning accidentally implanted a pacemaker in a patient's heart while trying to test out a new heart surgery technique.
The episode also explores the discovery of the first blood transfusion, which has been crucial in saving countless lives. Viewers will learn about James Blundell, who was inspired to try out blood transfusions after his sister nearly died from a postpartum hemorrhage.
Other accidental discoveries covered in the episode include the use of radiation in cancer therapy, the discovery of the cause of ulcers, and the role of nitroglycerin in treating heart disease.
Overall, this episode of All Time 10s proves to be informative and educational. Viewers will learn about some of the most crucial accidental discoveries in medical history and gain an understanding of the significant impact they have had on medicine today. This episode is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of medicine and the ways in which science and innovation can shape the world we live in.