Grey’s Anatomy, the longest-running primetime medical drama in television history, has captivated audiences for over two decades. From thrilling surgical cases that almost defy logic to heartwarming emotional narratives that leave viewers in tears, this series has certainly delivered some of the most unforgettable on-screen medical moments. Whether it’s a bomb lodged deep in a patient’s chest cavity or brain tumors weighing more than 33 pounds, let’s dive into the scientific reasoning behind each patient’s case.
Cement Man
Would you jump into a vat of cement for the girl you love? Well, that’s exactly what 19-year old patient Andrew Langston did to impress his crush. After first responders attempted to break off the chunks of cement that surrounded him, Andrew was rushed to the ER with severe burn marks, crush injuries, and hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels). In order to counteract the concrete’s effects, doctors used vinegar to reduce the burning of his skin. He was then rushed into surgery, where he received an embolectomy to improve blood circulation. Don’t worry, he survived all the procedures, and the episode concludes with a heartwarming reunion with Andrew’s requited love.
Bomb in a Chest Cavity
Doctors, first responders, and police perform acts of heroism every day. However, surgeon Dr. Meredith Grey takes her job to a whole different level when she finds herself in a life-threatening situation when a bomb is discovered in a patient’s chest cavity. The explosive, which was actually a replica of the M981 Bazooka from WWII, was shot into the patient by his best friend in an accident. This kind of situation is highly unlikely to happen in real life, as normal people usually aren’t allowed to build this kind of technology from their homes.
During the surgery in which the bomb was to be extracted, the patient’s body began to experience severe complications. The surgical team, along with the bomb squad, work under extreme pressure to dismantle the bomb as Meredith holds her hand steady, in order to avoid triggering the device.
Toxic Blood
In season 3, a cancer patient of Dr. Webber is back at the hospital. She had previously had a tumor removed from her colon just 8 months ago, but needed an additional follow-up surgery. As the surgical team began opening her up, each member began to mysteriously collapse. This was due to the patient’s rare condition of highly toxic blood. Although it is not stated, toxic blood could mean that there is potentially a potent neurotoxin that disrupts normal cellular function. This toxin caused the doctors in the operating room to immediately experience symptoms of dizziness, fainting, and even respiratory distress upon exposure. The patient was able to fully recover after the procedure was performed between intermittent shifts between each doctor.
The Tree Bark Man
Ever thought people thought of you as a freak? Well, unfortunately for patient Rick, this is his reality. Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis (EV), or more commonly known as “Tree Man Syndrome”, is an extremely rare genetic skin disorder caused by a mutation, making those afflicted extremely susceptible to HPV infections. Patients of EV usually present with symptoms including warty skin lesions along with scaly spots and small bumps on the hands, feet, and neck of the body. In rare cases, these skin lesions can even develop into giant horns. Although EV patients have the external appearance of resembling tree bark, there is an underlying immune deficiency that prevents their bodies from being able to properly control HPV infections.
The Twin Absorber
Discovering that you absorbed your twin in the womb is life-changing, to say the least. But for Greg, it only took about 15 seconds for him to fall in love with his baby brother. At the same time, however, his condition began to worsen — he presented with severe abdominal pain and neurological symptoms, and upon further imaging, it was revealed that his twin is actually parasitic, and contains hair, teeth, and partially formed organs. Fetus in fetu, the name of Greg’s condition, is rare because the absorbed twin is usually removed straight after birth. The outcome of the episode is quite heartwarming, as Greg takes home his baby brother in a jar.
It’s almost too easy to fall in love with the Grey’s Anatomy universe. Fascinating cases, interesting character development and crazy plot twists all make it impossible to stop after just one episode. Give it a watch and maybe you’ll soon discover your inner Meredith Grey!
