[Section of pubic symphysis and cesarean section. Analysis of a controversy (1765-1830)]

In the eighteenth century many Dutch physicians travelled to Paris, in order to improve their skills in the fields of surgery and obstetrics. Early in 1769, Petrus Camper, who had a lively correspondence with Antoine Louis, was informed by him about the activities of Jean-René Sigault, regarding the symphysiotomy and about the stir his proposition had caused within the Académie Royale de Chirurgie. Camper, who had occupied himself with this aspect of obstetrics since early 1758, proved that both objections made by the opponents, were wrong.