The history of urology on postage stamps and cancellations.

PURPOSE

Many important phases and personalities in the history of urology have been depicted on postage stamps, stationery and cancellations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The article gives a short recounting of several notable events that contributed to the development of urology as chronicled by philatelic material.

RESULTS

Beginning with the Egyptian papyri and ending with a recently acknowledged urologist, the historical survey covers uroscopy, lithotomy, lithotrity, anatomy, pathology, instruments, surgical techniques in urology, imaging techniques of the urinary tract, dialysis and renal transplantation. Personalities whose accomplishments have made a deep imprint in the history of urology, if honored on philatelic items, are described in this article.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the resulting picture does not necessarily present a continuity, it does emphasize certain peaks and high points in the evolution of this specialty.