The Knife and the Stone

The History of Urinary Stones: In Parallel with Civilization

“…The first recorded details of “ perineal lithotomy ” were those of Cornelius Celsus (25 BC–40 AD), who lived in Rome and wrote an encyclopedia of medicine ( De Medicina ) [1, 6, 7]. Although he, as a physician, never performed the operation himself, his description of perineal lithotomy was a landmark in the history of urology.…”

“…Celsus recommended the procedure to be carried out in spring, between ages of 9 and 14, with the help of two strong as well as intelligent assistants. Calus Plinus Secundus (23–79 AD), Galen (131–200 AD), and Paul of Aegine (625–690 AD) were other outstanding Greek physicians, who were practicing lithotomy, basically as described by Celsus [1, 6, 7]. …”

“…In this era lithotomists were essentially commercial travelers moving from town to town looking for business and cutting all who came their way [7]. Often uneducated and occasionally dishonest, some were great showmen.…”

“…Often uneducated and occasionally dishonest, some were great showmen. The procedure was generally performed in the public without anaesthesia and generally lasted a few minutes [7]. However, lithotomists were held responsible for their bad results and fined accordingly.…”

“…However, these two famous friends accused each other of plagiarism, which lasted for many years [1, 7]. …”