The surgeon and his intention: Gustav Simon (1824–1876), his first planned nephrectomy and further contributions to urology

Abstract

One of the historic landmarks in urology is the first planned nephrectomy performed in 1869 by Gustav Simon of Heidelberg (1824–1877). In the history of medicine the reflections and considerations of the specialized surgeon reveal distinguished analyses of the “case” and, thus, the beginning of a modern scientific discussion of a patient's quality of life. Available primary and secondary sources were screened to present a differentiated aspect of this milestone in the history of urology. The analysis of the first German indicated nephrectomy shows the introduction of scientifically orientated thinking in urology, especially in Germany during the middle of the nineteenth century, and parallels the rise of urology and general surgery.