Top 10 Incredible Self-Surgeries

“Discover 10 incredible real-life stories of self-surgeries, where individuals performed life-saving operations on themselves in extreme situations. From appendectomies to amputations, these stories showcase extraordinary courage and resilience.”

Ines Ramírez (Born 1960) – Caesarean Section

In rural Mexico, Ines Ramírez performed a self-C-section after 12 hours of labor. Using a six-inch knife, she delivered her baby successfully. She later received medical treatment and made a full recovery.

Aron Ralston (Born 1975) – Amputation of Right Arm

Trapped by a boulder while canyoneering, Ralston amputated his arm with a dull blade after five days. He then hiked miles for help. His story became widely known through the film 127 Hours.

Douglas Goodale (Born 1965) – Amputation of Right Arm

A fisherman caught in a winch at sea, Goodale cut off his own arm to survive. He later resumed lobstering and was featured in Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.

Dr. Leonid Rogozov (Born 1937) – Appendectomy

A Soviet doctor stationed in Antarctica, Rogozov performed his own appendectomy with local anesthetic, assisted by crew members. He resumed work two weeks later.

Sampson Parker (Born circa 1960) – Amputation of Right Arm

Caught in a corn harvester, Parker cut off his arm to escape a fire. He survived thanks to nearby motorists who got him medical help.

Joannes Lethaeus (Born circa 1620) – Bladder Stone Removal

A blacksmith, Lethaeus cut into his perineum to remove a large bladder stone. Though the wound was severe, he miraculously survived.

Dr. Evan O’Neill Kane (1862–1933) – Appendectomy & Hernia Repair

Kane removed his own appendix using local anesthesia to prove it was possible. Later, he also repaired his own hernia at age 70.

Deborah Sampson (1760–1827) – Musket Ball Extraction

Disguised as a male soldier, Sampson removed a musket ball from her thigh to avoid being discovered. She later received a military pension.

Amanda Feilding (Born 1943) – Trepanation

An artist and researcher, Feilding drilled into her own skull to improve blood flow, experiencing feelings of elation afterward.

Dr. Jerri Nielsen (Born 1952) – Biopsy & Chemotherapy

A physician stationed in Antarctica, Nielsen biopsied her own breast tumor and later administered chemotherapy with the help of a remote medical team. She was eventually evacuated for further treatment.