Abstract

Thesis statement: Roman physicians and surgeons established general protocols for the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic problems still followed by modern physicians and surgeons. Methodology: Historiography and conceptual analysis of the writings of physicians in ancient and modern times. Results: The protocol for diagnosis included (1) subjective information from the patients, (2) the objective findings of physicians, (3) assessment of these findings and their correlation with other patients with similar subjective and objective data, and (4) formulation of a treatment plan and alteration of the treatment plan based on its results. The protocol for treatment included (1) nonoperative procedures, (2) surgical procedures, and (3) convalescence and physical therapy. Conclusion: Ancient Roman and modern physicians used similar protocols in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with orthopedic problems.