Edward E. Mason

American surgeon and professor

Edward Eaton Mason (April 16, 1918 – December 29, 2020) was an American surgeon and professor known for his pioneering work in the field of bariatric surgery. He is often referred to as the "father of obesity surgery" due to his development of the gastric bypass procedure.

Early life and education

Edward E. Mason was born on April 16, 1918, in Cleveland, Ohio. He pursued his undergraduate studies at Harvard University, where he developed an interest in medicine. Mason went on to attend Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, earning his medical degree in 1943. Following his graduation, he completed his surgical residency at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Career

Edward E. Mason at the University of Iowa, 1964

Mason joined the faculty at the University of Iowa in 1950, where he spent the majority of his career. He became a full professor in 1966 and was appointed head of the Department of Surgery in 1971. During his tenure, Mason focused on the treatment of obesity, a condition that was not widely recognized as a significant health issue at the time.

In 1966, Mason performed the first gastric bypass surgery, a procedure that would become a cornerstone in the treatment of morbid obesity. This innovative surgery involved creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine to this pouch, thereby reducing the amount of food intake and absorption. The success of this procedure led to its widespread adoption and the development of various modifications over the years.

Contributions to bariatric surgery

Mason's work in bariatric surgery extended beyond the operating room. He was instrumental in establishing the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) in 1983, serving as its first president. Under his leadership, the society promoted research, education, and advocacy for the treatment of obesity and related metabolic disorders.

Mason also contributed to the academic literature, authoring numerous articles and book chapters on obesity and bariatric surgery. His research helped to establish the safety and efficacy of surgical interventions for obesity, influencing clinical practice and policy.

Later life and legacy

Edward E. Mason teaching in 2003

After retiring from active surgery, Mason continued to teach and mentor young surgeons. He remained involved in research and was a frequent speaker at medical conferences around the world. Mason's contributions to the field of bariatric surgery have had a lasting impact, with millions of patients benefiting from the procedures he developed.

Edward E. Mason passed away on December 29, 2020, at the age of 102. His legacy lives on through the countless lives improved by his work and the ongoing advancements in bariatric surgery inspired by his pioneering efforts.

Related pages

• Bariatric surgery
• Gastric bypass surgery
• Obesity
• American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery