Jacques Daviel

French ophthalmologist and pioneer of cataract surgery

Portrait of Jacques Daviel

Jacques Daviel (11 August 1696 – 30 September 1762) was a pioneering French ophthalmologist renowned for his groundbreaking work in cataract surgery. He is best known for being the first modern European physician to successfully perform extracapsular cataract extraction, a significant advancement in the field of ophthalmology.

Early Life and Education

Jacques Daviel was born in La Barre-en-Ouche, Normandy, France. He pursued his medical studies in Rouen and later in Paris, where he developed a keen interest in eye diseases. His early education laid the foundation for his future contributions to ophthalmology.

Career

Daviel began his medical career as a general practitioner but soon specialized in ophthalmology. He served as the personal physician to King Louis XV, which provided him with the opportunity to refine his surgical techniques and gain recognition in the medical community.

Innovations in Cataract Surgery

In 1747, Daviel performed the first successful extracapsular cataract extraction, a procedure that involved removing the lens of the eye while leaving the lens capsule intact. This was a significant departure from the traditional method of couching, which involved displacing the lens into the vitreous cavity. Daviel's technique reduced the risk of complications and improved visual outcomes for patients.

Legacy

Jacques Daviel's contributions to ophthalmology have had a lasting impact on the field. His innovative approach to cataract surgery paved the way for modern techniques and improved the quality of life for countless individuals suffering from cataracts.

Related Pages

• Ophthalmology
• Cataract
• Cataract surgery
• History of surgery