HF01-19: Wirt B. Dakin, MD: Pioneer of Urologic Filmography and Devoted Historian
Friday, May 3, 2024 4:36 PM to 4:43 PM · 7 min. (US/Central)
206
Abstract
History of Urology Forum
Information
Full Abstract and Figures
Author Block
Aden Swayze*, Ronscardy Mondesir, Benjamin Fleischmann, Raghuram Reddy, Ranjith Ramasamy, Miami, FL
Introduction
Urology has been shaped by many influential figures in its history. Dr. Wirt B. Dakin (1883-1975), in particular, stands out for his marked impact. This study seeks to highlight Dakin's exceptional achievements and contributions throughout his lifetime.
Methods
A thorough review of historical documents, personal inscriptions, and publications related to Dakin was conducted.
Results
Dakin earned his medical degree from the University of Southern California Medical School in 1908. He subsequently established his practice in Los Angeles, focusing on prostatic surgery at Los Angeles County Hospital. He held pivotal roles within the American Urological Association (AUA), serving as the secretary of its Western Section in 1927, president in 1929, and historian from 1947 to 1965. Furthermore, Dr. Dakin co-founded the History of Urology Club, now known as the History Forum. Dakin’s commitment to his profession continued until he saw his last patient in 1971 at the age of 89. In 1916, Dakin created the first-ever urologic motion picture, filming an open prostatectomy. Due to inadequate lighting in the operating room, the surgery and filming occurred on a hospital rooftop during daylight. This 22-minute film debuted at the 1917 AUA meeting in Chicago to much acclaim. Today, it resides in the William P. Didusch Museum in Baltimore, a testament to Dakin's enduring legacy. Dakin further enriched urology with his 1948 publication "Urological Oddities," an extensive exploration of foreign bodies in the genitourinary system. His meticulous documentation of 212 cases from urologists worldwide provided a deep dive into this medical phenomenon, enriching the field’s knowledge. Dakin's dedication to urology's history shines through his contributions to the AUA. Serving as the AUA's historian, he sought to capture past AUA annual meetings with an extensive photographic record. Although he faced challenges in compiling a complete collection, the William P. Didusch Center for Urologic History now houses the records he amassed, along with his notable film. This collection stands as a tribute to his meticulous work and underscores his passion for preserving urology's rich heritage for upcoming generations.
Conclusions
Dr. Darkin occupies a distinguished position in urological history, emblematic of innovation and unwavering dedication. His pioneering film initiatives, exploration of urological anomalies, and deep commitment to chronicling urology's evolution have offered invaluable perspectives on the field's progression.
Source Of Funding
None
Author Block
Aden Swayze*, Ronscardy Mondesir, Benjamin Fleischmann, Raghuram Reddy, Ranjith Ramasamy, Miami, FL
Introduction
Urology has been shaped by many influential figures in its history. Dr. Wirt B. Dakin (1883-1975), in particular, stands out for his marked impact. This study seeks to highlight Dakin's exceptional achievements and contributions throughout his lifetime.
Methods
A thorough review of historical documents, personal inscriptions, and publications related to Dakin was conducted.
Results
Dakin earned his medical degree from the University of Southern California Medical School in 1908. He subsequently established his practice in Los Angeles, focusing on prostatic surgery at Los Angeles County Hospital. He held pivotal roles within the American Urological Association (AUA), serving as the secretary of its Western Section in 1927, president in 1929, and historian from 1947 to 1965. Furthermore, Dr. Dakin co-founded the History of Urology Club, now known as the History Forum. Dakin’s commitment to his profession continued until he saw his last patient in 1971 at the age of 89. In 1916, Dakin created the first-ever urologic motion picture, filming an open prostatectomy. Due to inadequate lighting in the operating room, the surgery and filming occurred on a hospital rooftop during daylight. This 22-minute film debuted at the 1917 AUA meeting in Chicago to much acclaim. Today, it resides in the William P. Didusch Museum in Baltimore, a testament to Dakin's enduring legacy. Dakin further enriched urology with his 1948 publication "Urological Oddities," an extensive exploration of foreign bodies in the genitourinary system. His meticulous documentation of 212 cases from urologists worldwide provided a deep dive into this medical phenomenon, enriching the field’s knowledge. Dakin's dedication to urology's history shines through his contributions to the AUA. Serving as the AUA's historian, he sought to capture past AUA annual meetings with an extensive photographic record. Although he faced challenges in compiling a complete collection, the William P. Didusch Center for Urologic History now houses the records he amassed, along with his notable film. This collection stands as a tribute to his meticulous work and underscores his passion for preserving urology's rich heritage for upcoming generations.
Conclusions
Dr. Darkin occupies a distinguished position in urological history, emblematic of innovation and unwavering dedication. His pioneering film initiatives, exploration of urological anomalies, and deep commitment to chronicling urology's evolution have offered invaluable perspectives on the field's progression.
Source Of Funding
None
Sessions
History of Urology Forum
206