Medicine, Surgery and Public Health at the epoch of Gimbernat (1734 - 1816)

ABSTRACT

The aim of this publication is to recall to memory Don Antonio de Gimbernat i Arbós on the occasion of the second centenary of his death. Gimbernat was a prominent figure in the fields of anatomy, surgery and medicine in Spain during the second half of the 18th century. Born in Cambrils (Tarragona, Spain) in 1734, he studied surgery in Cadiz, thereafter commencing his professional career in Barcelona, where he made his more important anatomical discoveries. His visits to France, England and Holland between 1774 and 1778 constituted a milestone in his life. After returning to Spain, Gimbernat founded the Royal College of San Carlos in Madrid and, with increasing fame, advanced in the Spanish medical hierarchy. In 1793 he published a memorable work on the anatomy of the rural region and the surgery of femoral hernias, which was recognized throughout Europe, being translated into English, German and French. He was also a brilliant surgeon and physician in other areas (liver diseases, ophthalmology, gynecology, urology, etc.), always regarding anatomy as the basis for his work. In the early nineteenth century he held high positions within national medical institutions, promoting inter alia the unification of the study of surgery and medicine; an important step in the modernization of Spanish medical education. The last years of his life were difficult and sad as, for political reasons, Gimbernat no longer received the recognition he deserved after a life so rich in professional successes. Gimbernat died in Madrid at the age of 82 (AU)

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