Professor Viktor Guttmann – another forgotten laryngologist was born 145 years ago

Overview

Although professor Viktor Guttmann was one of the key figures in early Czech laryngology, his name has largely faded into obscurity. This article provides a comprehensive view of the life and professional contributions of this notable Jewish physician, who was born 145 years ago in Tábor and worked primarily in Prague.

Guttmann graduated from the Medical Faculty of Charles-Ferdinand University, specializing in laryngology under the guidance of professor Otakar Frankenberger, and made significant contributions to the establishment of the Czech Laryngological Institute. Guttmann was deeply engaged in scientific and publishing activities. His main research topics included diseases of the larynx, nose, and paranasal sinuses, with several of his findings remaining relevant in today’s medical literature. He regularly reported on the institute’s activities in the Journal of Czech Physicians and presented at medical congresses both at home and abroad. In his practice, he was known for his compassionate approach, often providing free care to patients from poorer backgrounds.

Viktor Guttmann passed away at the age of 42 in 1921 due to kidney disease. This article explores his life and legacy, including the discovery of his tombstone at the now-nonexistent Jewish cemetery in Tábor, thus restoring the memory of this forgotten Czech laryngologist for current and future generations of medical professionals.