Animal models in surgical training: choice and ethics

Abstract

The use of animals in scientific research dates back to 500 BC, with research from Greece by Alcmaeon and other temporary scientists. Techniques for dissecting living animals were improved by Galen of Pergamum and his experiments were later valuable in the discovery of blood circulation in the16th century. Until the 18th century humans were envisaged as the only alternative to animals in scientific research, and it was advocated that criminals in particular should be the subjects of vivisection. By the 19th century, however, even the use of cadavres came under regulation. Claude Bernard and other leading scientists defended the focus on animal experimentation, which increased its use. Louis Pasteur, who pioneered research in infectious diseases, developed antibiotics following experiments in animals. Advocates of non-animal research, such as Lawson Tait, claimed that the diseases of animals were different from those of human beings and concluded that vivisection was worthless. In 1959 Burch and Russell formed the concept of humane research to help develop experiments that utilized animal-free techniques.

Nigerian Journal of Surgical Research Vol. 7(3&4) 2005: 260-267