John Heysham Gibbon

John H. Gibbon Jr.

John Heysham Gibbon (September 29, 1903 – February 5, 1973) was an American surgeon best known for inventing the heart-lung machine and performing the first successful open-heart surgery. His pioneering work in cardiothoracic surgery has had a profound impact on the field of medicine.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Gibbon was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, into a family with a strong medical background. He attended Princeton University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in 1923. He then went on to study at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, graduating in 1927.

Career[edit | edit source]

After completing his medical degree, Gibbon trained in surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Edward D. Churchill at the Massachusetts General Hospital. During his early career, he developed an interest in the mechanics of the heart and the potential for mechanical assistance during surgery.

Development of the Heart-Lung Machine[edit | edit source]

Gibbon's most significant contribution to medicine was the development of the heart-lung machine, which he began working on in the 1930s. The machine was designed to take over the functions of the heart and lungs during surgery, allowing surgeons to operate on a still and bloodless heart. After years of research and development, Gibbon successfully used the machine in 1953 to perform the first successful open-heart surgery on an 18-year-old patient with an atrial septal defect.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Gibbon's invention of the heart-lung machine revolutionized the field of cardiac surgery, making it possible to perform complex procedures that were previously deemed impossible. His work laid the foundation for modern cardiopulmonary bypass techniques and has saved countless lives.

Personal Life[edit | edit source]

Gibbon was married to Mary Hopkinson, and they had four children. He continued to work and teach at the Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia until his retirement.

Death[edit | edit source]

John Heysham Gibbon passed away on February 5, 1973, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and excellence in the field of cardiothoracic surgery.

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]

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