Медицина древней Армении: опыт исторической реконструкции

Abstract

The study aims to investigate the history of medical practice in Armenia from ancient times to the 18th–19th centuries, with particular attention to surgical interventions (including cranial trepanation), the use of medicinal plants, anesthesia methods, and the organization of medical care. The research is based on a comprehensive analysis of archaeological and paleopathological materials, medieval Armenian manuscripts (Matenadaran), craniological collections, and historical sources. Methods include morphometric, X-ray and visual analysis of skeletal remains, reconstruction of surgical techniques, and comparison of written sources with archaeological data. It was established that complex surgical techniques, including drilling, sawing, and scraping of bone tissue during cranial trepanation, were practiced in Armenia from the Bronze Age. Medieval and early modern sources indicate the use of anesthesia (decoctions based on wine and medicinal plants), trauma surgery, orthopedics, and the development of forensic medicine.