RE: AUA CODE OF ETHICS

RE: AUA CODE OF ETHICS

1708 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR which is not possible in our experience using most current CT scanners. In the current health care environment it is impo...

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1708

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

which is not possible in our experience using most current CT scanners. In the current health care environment it is important to take advantage of the benefits of new technology in ways that optimize patient treatment while minimizing morbidity and maintaining costeffectiveness. Respectfully, Stephen V. Jackman and Thomas W. Jarrett Department of Urology Johns Hopkins Hospital 600 N . Wolfe St. Baltimore, Maryland 21287-2101 1. Smith, R. C.. Rosenfield, A. T., Choe, K. A., Essenmacher, K. R., Verga, M., Glickman, M. G. and Lange, R. C.: Acute flank pain: comparison of non-contrast-enhanced CT and intravenous urography. Radiology, 194 789, 1995.

century and, therefore, is not adequate for a n article about the late 17th or early 18th century. Respectfully, Dirk Schultheiss Department of Urology Hannover Medical School 30625 Hannover Germany 1. Herman, J. R.: Lithotomy or “cutting for stone.” In: Urology: A View Through the Retrospectroscope. Hagerstown, Maryland: Harper & Row, pp. 22-34, 1973. 2. Ultzmann, R.: Die Krankheiten der Harnblase (Deutsche Chirurgie, 52). Stuttgart: Ferdinand Enke, pp. 39-40, 1890. RE: AUA CODE OF ETHICS

W. R. Turner, Jr. J. Urol., 161: 1912-1913, 1999

RE: FReRE JACQUES BEAULIEU: FROM ROGUE LITHOTOMIST TO NURSERY RHYME CHARACTER

J . P. Ganem and C. C. Carson

J. Urol., 161: 1067-1069, 1999 To the Editor. By outlining the life of the famous 17th century lithotomist Frere Jacques Beaulieu the authors give a worthwhile impression of an early aspect of urological surgery. Nevertheless, some misinterpretation about the portable lithotomy table must be noted (figure 1 in article). Although the reference to this figure is missing in the article, it was obviously taken from Herman,’ a s may be concluded from the remaining numbering on this reproduction. However, as quoted by Herman, the original source is Ultzmann, published in 1890.2This original source indicates that the Viennese pioneer of urology designed the table for transurethral examination of the bladder and blind lithotrity, a method of the 19th century. In contrast to the traditional lithotomy position, transurethral procedures at that time were mainly performed with the patient supine, and with straight legs and elevated buttocks. The Ultzmann table is not suitable for perineal open surgery with the patient in the lithotomy position, allowing the surgeon to inspect and approach the perineum directly. Furthermore, the illustration of the Ultzmann

To the Editor. I t certainly is admirable t h a t the American Urological Association has come up with a n extensive and somewhat comprehensive code of ethics. However, actions speak louder than words, The Bible and all of the laws on the books have not prevented Americans from committing unethical and illegal actions. Its unfortunate t h a t the American Urological Association chose not to endorse universal health care, although i t had no hesitancy in pointing out our responsibilities to our patients and our communities. Organized medicine would have much greater credibility with the public if it were seen to represent the public good rather than the economic interests of organized medicine and individual physicians. Respectfully, Jerry Frankel 3320 Snidow Ct. Plano, Texas 75025

ERRATUM LAPAROSCOPIC TESTICULAR DENERVATION Volume 162, Number 3, Part 1, Page 736: The authors of the Editorial Comment are Drs. Elroy D. Kursh and Leslie R. Schover.