Galen von Pergamon (129–216/217) und seine Beiträge zur Urologie

Abstract

Galen's significant and original contributions to the field we today define as urology are presented and discussed. In addition his case reports connected to urological organs or symptoms, based on the Greek original texts, illustrate and substantiate his theoretical and clinical approach to the urology patient. This way of proceeding to a certain extent comes close to today's understanding of medical practice. Furthermore, some aspects of his self-image as a physician, his ethical positions and relationship to his patients are analyzed. Finally an attempt is made to evaluate whether Galen's ideas still bear a meaning for the physician of today. Dealing with this leading figure of medical history and his many clinical, scientific and philosophical abilities may give us a better understanding of the technical as well as the ideational roots of our profession.