The Victorian era was a period of astonishing advances. In the field of medicine, introductions were made of both antiseptics and anesthetics, and the average life span increased.
Scientific thinking during this time changed from the miasma theory that was based on odors causing illnesses to an understanding of the role of bacteria. The standard of living improved as a result.
“By the end of the century Victorians understood the need for antiseptic surgery, anesthetics, and general cleanliness.” http://www.geocities.com/victorianmedicine/entire.html
As far as treatments went, medical practitioners used opium, laudanum and chloroform. Surgical techniques advanced and became safer through the use of antiseptics, although many people still relied on herbal cures and ancient practices. http://www.victorianweb.org/science/medicine.html http://world-history-blog.blogspot.com/2005/09/victorian-medicine.html