[History of one surgical procedure in the light of Tomasz Drobnik achievements].

The authors present achievements of Polish physician Tomasz Drobnik (1858-1901) in the field of surgery. The history of reconstructive surgery of the facial nerve is described. Tomasz Drobnik, surgeon from Poznań, on the turn of 19th century carried out many innovatory operations in the field of orthopedics, general surgery and otolaryngology. He was extremely talented practitioner and very much engaged in scientific research and social work, which he realized in a difficult time of Prussian occupation. For over hundred years he was regarded as a pioneer in treatment of the facial nerve injuries (by uniting it with the spinal accessory). The authors present some arguments which may deny the priority of Drobnik in this procedure. The authors conclude, that Drobnik's contribution to the development of surgery has not been estimated enough. His achievements were much ahead of his time and has not been wide enough described.