The Sushruta Samhita is an ancient Sanskrit text on medicine and one of the most important such treatises on this subject to survive from the ancient world. Sushruta is the listed author of the Sushruta Samhita (Sushruta’s Compendium), a treatise considered to be one of the most important surviving ancient treatises on medicine and is considered a foundational text of Ayurveda. The treatise addresses all aspects of general medicine, but the impressive chapters on surgery have led to the false impression that this is its main topic. Sushruta’s medical prowess is exhibited through his writings on rhinoplasty, involving nasal reconstructions using skin from the patient’s forehead or cheek, often for criminals punished with amputations. Based on reports in the October 1794 edition of The Gentleman’s Magazine, published in London, Indians maintained Sushruta’s surgical practices until the late 18th century. The present book is a translation version of old Sanskrit text which will help the readers to understand and comprehend the subject easily. The modern-day surgeons in India and abroad would also be benefited by understanding the knowledge embedded in Sushruta Samhita.

Varahamihira Kapoor is a distinguished Ayurvedic surgeon and researcher specializing in Shalya Tantra (Ayurvedic surgery). His scholarly inquiries into ancient surgical practices and their applications in modern healthcare promote evidence-based Ayurvedic medicine and surgical education.