What was a key substance introduced by Lister to enhance surgical cleanliness?

The introduction of phenol by Joseph Lister was pivotal in enhancing surgical cleanliness and infection control in the 19th century. Lister's innovative use of phenol, a carbonic acid derivative, was based on its antiseptic properties. He recognized that it could significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative infections, which were a major cause of morbidity and mortality in surgery at that time.

By using phenol to disinfect instruments, surgical linens, and the hands of medical personnel, Lister successfully demonstrated that infection could be prevented. His work laid the foundation for modern antiseptic techniques, emphasizing the need to control microbial contamination in clinical settings. Lister’s principles of aseptic technique are still relevant today, forming the basis for infection control practices that utilize various antiseptics to ensure surgical safety and patient care.

In contrast, while alcohol, chlorhexidine, and hydrogen peroxide are also important antiseptics, they were either not introduced by Lister or did not play the same foundational role in the evolution of surgical practices as phenol did.