[Theodor Billroth (1829-1894) in Russia]

The German Dr Theodor Billroth, one of the greatest surgeons of all times, was of a noble, considerate and attentive character. He was an amiable man who had great interests in the arts. Billroth was well known among the Russian people and was invited to perform an operation on one of Russia's most loved poets Nikolai Alexejewich Nekrassow. In 1877 Billroth went to St Petersburg and operated on Nekrossow. Although the patient improved, the cancer he suffered from could not be dealt with completely, yet this was the only treatment possible. This event is not very well known in Germany, Russia and other countries, only a small number of people, who have studied Nekrassow's life, are aware of these circumstances.Theodor Billroth visited Russia on a number of occasions about which there is little information available. He showed interest in many cultural events and places, spent time with the royal family, and performed some minor operations.