Jean-Luc ADDE
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(Texte anonyme d’un chirurgien du 19 ème siècle)
Both before and after an operation this man of art must show himself to be both doctor and surgeon. He interviews his patient confidentially, with the resignation, courage and assurance of a full recovery from which he draws support. He reassures or consoles, depending on whether the patient fears more the pain or possible deformity or mutilation. It is difficult task for the surgeon, the only hope for his fellow human being often in an unstable or critical condition, which demands both extreme sensitivity as well as the possession of a rare talent in the operating room. Eloquent and in possession of the utmost tact, he must find in himself the means to coax and later to control and direct his emotions and those of his patient towards sympathy and care for the other’s misfortune. This forms in him an unshakeable determination and unwavering courage. A great surgeon, truly worthy of this name, is no ordinary man.
Anonymous text from a 19th century surgeon