Clement Price Thomas

Clement Price Thomas (22 November 1893 – 19 March 1973) was a pioneering Welsh thoracic surgeon renowned for his work in the field of cardiothoracic surgery. He is best known for performing a successful pneumonectomy on King George VI in 1951.

Early Life and Education

Clement Price Thomas was born in Abercarn, Monmouthshire, Wales. He attended Newport High School and later studied at the University of Wales, where he earned his medical degree. He furthered his education at St Bartholomew's Hospital in London, where he trained under the guidance of prominent surgeons.

Medical Career

Price Thomas began his medical career as a house surgeon at St Bartholomew's Hospital. He later specialized in thoracic surgery, a field that was in its infancy at the time. His expertise grew, and he became a consultant surgeon at the Brompton Hospital and the Westminster Hospital.

Contributions to Thoracic Surgery

Price Thomas made significant contributions to the development of thoracic surgery techniques. He was instrumental in advancing the surgical treatment of tuberculosis and lung cancer. His most notable achievement was the successful pneumonectomy performed on King George VI, which brought him international recognition.

Academic and Professional Recognition

Throughout his career, Price Thomas was actively involved in medical education and research. He published numerous papers on thoracic surgery and was a member of several prestigious medical societies. He was also a lecturer at the University of London and contributed to the training of future surgeons.

Personal Life

Clement Price Thomas married Ethel Doris Price, and they had two sons. He was known for his dedication to his patients and his commitment to advancing medical knowledge. He retired in 1961 and spent his later years in London.

Legacy

Price Thomas's work laid the foundation for modern thoracic surgery. His techniques and approaches continue to influence the field. He is remembered as a pioneer who made significant strides in the treatment of lung diseases and thoracic conditions.

See Also

• Thoracic surgery
• Pneumonectomy
• King George VI
• Brompton Hospital
• Westminster Hospital