The magnificent seven: a history of modern thyroid surgery.

In the mid-19th century, thyroid surgery was regarded as a "proceeding by no means to be thought of" in Britain, "foolhardy" in Europe, and "horrid butchery" in America. By the mid-20th century, thyroid surgery was amongst the most efficient and safest of operations. This transition of modern thyroid surgery over a century was brought about by seven surgeons. The lessons of Theodor Billroth, Theodor Kocher, William Halsted, Charles Mayo, George Crile, Frank Lahey and Thomas Dunhill are to be forever relearned and respected. Let us remember this pantheon of pioneers, these "Magnificent Seven".