Patient examination and treatment records, prescriptions, correspondence, clippings, photographs, and payment records from 1938-1975 pertaining to Dr. Putnam's practice in neurological surgery. The bulk of the material covers the period 1947 to 1975 when the medical practice was located in Beverly Hills, California. Records include patient case histories; medical test reports; prescriptions; correspondence with physicians, patients and their relatives, and lawyers; photographs and slides of some surgical cases; workers' compensation and disability claims, appeals, and testimony; and billing information and payment claims. Cases include the surgical and pharmaceutical treatment of epilepsy; pain; head, back, and limb injuries; multiple sclerosis; Parkinsons disease; and other disorders typically seen in a neurology practice of the time. Documents the use of phenytoin sodium (Dilantin; Parke-Davis), along with clinical trials of other anticonvulsants in the mid and late 1950's. The surgical treatment of infantile hydrocephalus and myelomeningoceles in the 1950's is accompanied by photographs. Unique cases include one of Ataxia-Telangiectasis and a renowned case of electronic or artificial vision in 1957. Biographical material includes curriculum vitae and personal statements. Publications include offprints, reprints, and photocopies of journal articles. Unemployment tax returns and related forms pertain to Putnam's medical office staff.
