Tom Lea Institute presents

“The Evolution of the Sagittectomy”

You’re invited to an enlightening night of art and history on campus.

As part of the 2023-2024 celebration of famed artist Tom Lea, the Tom Lea Institute is hosting “The Evolution of the Sagittectomy,” at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 12.

Dr. Alan Tyroch, chair of surgery and trauma medical director, will discuss the experiences of Spanish explorer Alvar Nuñez Cabeza de Vaca, who was considered a healer by the Indigenous people he encountered during his exploration of the New World.

Cabeza de Vaca is credited with the first recorded surgical procedure in North America: a sagittectomy to remove an arrowhead from a patient’s chest. In 1965, Lea created a sketch of the operation that now hangs in the lobby of MSB II.

The event will include a tour that highlights some of the historical and thought-provoking artwork on display around campus.

Please join our TTUHSC El Paso community for what promises to be a great event.

You can find more details and RSVP here.