1857-1944. Austrian ophthalmologist who
introduced local anaesthesia 1884. When
Sigmund Freud discovered the pain-killing
properties of cocaine, Koller recognized its
potential as a local anaesthetic. He carried
out early experiments on animals and on
himself, and the technique quickly became
standard in ophthalmology, dentistry, and
other areas in cases where general
anaesthesia is unnecessary and exposes the
patient to needless risk.