Thomas Schlich is a preeminent historian of modern medicine and science. In his work he has examined the rationale for surgery—why surgeons open the body -- and the techniques they develop to do so. Combining the perspectives of history with science and technology studies, Schlich’s work elucidates the introduction of innovative ideas and techniques, including organ transplants, metal implants in the treatment of fractures, the pathways to the contemporary development of minimally invasive surgery, and, most recently, the origins and use of face masks to prevent infections.