[Evolution of the knowledge of urethral pathology in Valencia from the end of the XIX century to the middle of XX century. Historical documentary analysis].
OBJECTIVE
Urethral pathology has always been an interesting topic for study, being present in texts from 600 years B.C, where wood and metallic dilators are described. First external urethrotomies appear in the Jewish-Muslim period, and Francisco Diaz describes in 1588 the treatment of the prostate in his book "Tratamiento de las carnosidades de la verga". With Civiale and Maisoneuve, between 1700 and 1800, appears the description of the urethrotome, and finally in the middle XIX century starts the search for adequate tissues to replace urethra.


METHODS
We review all articles on the topic of urethral pathology from authors from Valencia in that period, mainly published in the journal "Revista Valenciana de Ciencias Médicas".


RESULTS
We emphasize the use of bulbs and sounds in the approach to urethral stenosis by several authors, with their advantages and limitations. We also emphasize the description of external urethrotomy by Prof. Molla. Finally, we point out the treatment of a posterior urethra fracture by tunneling reported by Dr. Alfredo Tramoyeres.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite not being a topic with a high volume of publications, it has always interested authors. We describe all treatments, and sound insertion and dilation techniques as first option.
Cánovos Ivorrao
José Antonio
JA
Servicio de Urología, Hospital General Universitario, Valencia. jacanovas@hotmail.com
Tramoyeres Galvañ
Alfredo
A
Navaolón Verdejo
Pedro
P
Pérez Albacete
Mariono
M
López Alcina
Emilio
E
Zaragozá Orts
Julio
J
D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D013030:Spain; D014515:Ureteral Diseases / Q000266:history*; D014572:Urology / Q000266:history*