The Man Who Survived an Iron Rod to the Brain
Channel: Syncopea
Date: 11/02/2024

Phineas Gage is renowned as the individual who sparked the field of neuroscience. In 1848, while working on a railroad project, a tragic accident occurred. An iron rod pierced through his skull, causing substantial damage to his frontal lobe.

Despite the severity of the injury, Gage remarkably survived. He was able to speak, walk, and even recall the names of his colleagues. Initially, he expressed optimism about returning to work soon. However, an infection set in, leading to a semi-comatose state for several days.

Gradually, Gage's condition improved. He took his first steps out of bed on October 7th, and by October 11th, his cognitive abilities began to show signs of recovery. He returned to his family home in New Hampshire to continue his recuperation.

When Dr. Harlow, the physician who treated Gage, saw him again the following year, he observed that while Gage had lost vision in one eye and bore scars from the accident, he was in good physical health and seemed to have recovered well.
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