I know there was at least one case of a successful appendectomy performed by a Hospital Corpsman on board a sub, with help via radio (I think) from a doctor on some other ship. Not sure if that was during WW 2 or shortly after. Maybe it was in Reader’s Digest that I read about it.
A Russian doctor stranded for the winter at a base in Antarctica successfully removed his own appendix using a mirror and local anesthetic.
There WAS a successful appendectomy performed by a Corpsman in WWII, aboard a Sub in the Sea of Japan. (I think Corpsmen were referred to as “Pharmacist’s mates” in those days.)
The skipper submerged to a depth of over 200 feet, to provide a stable platform. The surgery was performed using bent spoons & forks as retractors. The patient survived, however the corpsman was charged (Unsuccessfully) for performing a procedure for which he had no training!
He was awarded a medal for saving his shipmate’s life a few years back. The U.S. Naval Institute may have more info. That’s where I saw the story.
LC
Yep - it was aboard a submarine. I read the same story.
Two fictional accounts. 1) in Destination Tokyo or Run Silent, Run Deep if I recall correctly; 2) Ensign Pulver (sequel to the excellent Mr Robers).