The contribution to our understanding of spinal disorders by the great Windmill Street School of Anatomy

Study design: This is a review article. Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the contribution of the private school of anatomy, the Great Windmill Street School, in our understanding of the physiology, anatomy and pathology of the spine and spinal cord and its role in the treatment of spinal diseases in the eighteenth century. Much has been written about the Hunter brothers and Sir Charles Bell and their contribution to anatomy and medical teaching but the significant role of the Great Windmill Street School of Anatomy in our understanding of the spinal cord and the treatment of spinal disorders had not been previously explored. Setting: Wendover, UK. Methods: Review of the literature. Results: Not applicable. Conclusion: The Great Windmill Street School of Anatomy was unique and fundamental in our understanding of the spine and the spinal cord and the treatment of spinal diseases. What is remarkable is that this work emanated from a private school and not a hospital or a university and it allowed an outstanding school of surgeons and physicians to carry out their work unfettered.