Dominique Jean Larrey

Dominique Jean Larrey (Baudean, July 8, 1766 – July 25, 1842 in Lyon) was a French surgeon in Napoleon's army.

Related Topics:
July 8 - 1766 - July 25 - 1842 - Lyon - French - Surgeon - Napoleon

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He was born in a little village in the Pyrenees and orphaned at the age of 13. He was raised by his uncle Alexis, who was chief surgeon in Toulouse. After serving a 6-year apprenticeship, he went to Paris to study under the great Desault, who was chief surgeon at the Hôtel Dieu. His studies were cut short by war.

Related Topics:
Pyrenees - Toulouse - Paris - Desault - Hôtel Dieu

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Larrey was surgeon-in-chief of the Napoleonic armies from Egypt to Waterloo and favorite of the Emperor by whom he was ennobled on the field of Wagram in 1809. He initiated the modern method of army surgery and the system of army ambulance corps.

Related Topics:
Napoleonic - Waterloo - Wagram

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After Waterloo, he was taken prisoner by the Prussians and condemned to death. However, he was recognized by one of the German surgeons, who pleaded for his life. Perhaps partly because he had saved the life of Blücher's son when he was wounded and taken prisoner by the French, he was pardoned and taken back to France under escort.

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His writings, still regarded as valuable sources of surgical and medical knowledge, have been translated into all modern languages.

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