Most common was the standard surgical technique used during the long, cruel winter of 1777‑78, when George Washington's troops were pinned down at Valley Forge.  This operation called first for a good dose of tincture of opium, followed by apple rum.  The patient was then prepared to face the sharp knife or saw, while his head was wrapped in lamps wool to make him comfortable.  The stump was then cauterized with a hot iron or boiling oil, despite the 16th century teachings of Ambroise Pare, c. 1510 – 20 December 1590.  Finally a pressure bandage was applied.