South Australian Medical Heritage Society Inc

Lithotomy

Urinary and bladder stones were common in the 19^th century. They varied in size and some weighed as much as 51oz. Numerous types of lithotrites were developed with only moderate success. They were mostly introduced through the urethra, but occasionally a transperineal surgical approach was used. The mortality was close to 30-50%. A good description is in Samuel Pepys' diaries. He was lucky to survive the procedure.

These instruments resembled the " Basilyst" used by obstetricians.

Common 19th.century lithotomy instruments courtesy of “Antique Medical Instruments” by Elizabeth Bennion. Southeby’s Publications 1979.