Abstract:
Background: Mihintale ancient hospital situated in Anuradhapura area is considered as the
earliest ancient Hospital in Sri Lanka. It provides the facts regarding the status of Sri Lankan
traditional medical system in Anuradhapura period. Interaction of Sri Lanka with India is
continued from early period in many ways such as politically, culturally and religiously etc. Many
people claim that Sri Lankan traditional medicine is an independent and unique medical system
practiced in Sri Lanka. However, various resources showcase the interconnection between its
specialties and various Asian medical systems.
Objective: To evaluate the Indian collaboration on Surgery in Sri Lankan traditional medicine
through archaeological and literary evidence
Methods: A survey was carried out using archaeological artifacts and chronological evidences
including literature sources.
Results: Fourteen edicts and other two separate edicts of inscriptions of king Asoka (273 –
232 BCE) is considered as the first archaeological evidence regarding medical influence of India
on Sri Lankan traditional medicine. The Mahavamsa, a meticulously kept Sri Lankan historical
chronicle, documented the political relationship with King Devanampiyatissa (247-207 BCE),
who ruled Sri Lanka parallel to King Ashoka. Influence on Sri Lankan Traditional Medical
System can be found in it. Surgical instruments have been found at Mihintale and Alahana
Pirivena ancient hospital sites situated in Sri Lanka resembling features of Yantra and Shastra
described in Susruta Samhita. A Sri Lankan traditional medical text 'Sarartha Samgrahaya' by
King Buddhadasa (341-370BCE), with its chapter on 'Shalya Chikitsa' and surgical instruments
similar to Susruta Samhita, adds another layer to the evidence of Indian influence on surgical
practices in Sri Lanka.
Conclusions: These archaeological and historical records prove the development of the Sri
Lankan medical system as a part of the medical system in ancient India and regional impact on
surgical practice in Sri Lanka, although it has its distinct features unique to the existing continent.
