Franz von Paula Gruithuisen (1774-1852): lithotrity pioneer and astronomer. On the 150th anniversary of his death.

On the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the death of Franz von Paula Gruithuisen, the authors present his life and work. His most significant work in the fields of urology and lithotrity is examined, with special emphasis on the development of the latter field. He published his epoch-making historic study in 1813 in the Journal of Medicine and Surgery (Medicinisch-Chirurgische Zeitung). Franz von Paula Gruithuisen, the Bavarian physician and astronomer, led the way in the field of lithotrity. He developed crucial ideas on how to remove bladder stones transurethrally in a way that was safer and less likely to cause death. His instruments can be regarded as the model on which subsequent devices are based. Gruithuisen's influence on European medical scientists and, in particular, his rivalry with Jean Civiale are discussed.