The circumcision scene in the tomb of Ankhmahor: the first record of emergency surgery?

Detailed desciption and discussion of the famous circumcision scene in the tomb of Ankhmahor at Saqqara. It is suggested that the scenes depict an emergency surgical procedure or, at the very least, a deliberate operation for a known pathology. The scenes reflect a high level of medical practice, understanding and even sophistication which was present almost from the start of urban life in Ancient Egypt, and not just the performance of the religious ritual of circumcision. The author's hypotheses may perhaps provide some rationale for circumcision becoming a religious custom for most inhabitants of this part of the world. At least, the evidence suggests that this observance had prophylaxis and sound medical reasoning behind its inception. (OEB)