Following Hippocrates’ declaration that knowledge of the spine “is the requisite of understanding many diseases,” this exhibit provides both the casual viewer and the seasoned doctor with a sense of the spine’s important role in the body. “Supporting Structure” highlights previous methods of treating spinal injury, and showcases the technological and surgical advances that have revolutionized the field. Special attention has also been given to noble figures in the history of spinal exploration.

Many objects shown have been drawn from the Museum’s permanent collection, including: rare medical anatomy atlases, archival photographs, manuscripts of prominent surgeons throughout history, a variety of early surgical instruments, and many examples of cutting-edge “hardware” used in modern surgical procedures.


“Supporting Structure” was made possible through the generosity of: