Lewis Yocum

American orthopedic surgeon

Dr. Lewis Yocum

Lewis Yocum was a renowned orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, particularly known for his expertise in Tommy John surgery. He served as the team physician for the Los Angeles Angels and was a consultant for numerous professional athletes across various sports.

Early Life and Education

Lewis Yocum was born in 1947 in Chicago, Illinois. He developed an interest in medicine at a young age, inspired by his father, who was a general practitioner. Yocum attended Loyola University Chicago, where he completed his undergraduate studies. He then pursued a medical degree at the University of Illinois College of Medicine.

Career

After completing his medical degree, Yocum undertook a residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Southern California. He further specialized in sports medicine, training under the guidance of Dr. Frank Jobe, a pioneer in the field. Yocum joined the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic, where he worked alongside Jobe and became an integral part of the team.

Tommy John Surgery

Yocum became particularly well-known for his work in ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction, commonly known as Tommy John surgery. This procedure, named after the first baseball player to undergo the surgery, Tommy John, involves replacing a damaged ligament in the elbow with a tendon from elsewhere in the body. Yocum's expertise in this area made him a sought-after surgeon for Major League Baseball players and other athletes.

Contributions to Sports Medicine

Throughout his career, Yocum contributed significantly to the advancement of sports medicine. He was involved in numerous research projects and published several papers on orthopedic surgery techniques. His work helped improve the outcomes of surgical procedures for athletes, allowing many to return to their sports at a high level of performance.

Legacy

Dr. Yocum's impact on sports medicine and orthopedic surgery is profound. He was known not only for his surgical skills but also for his compassionate care and dedication to his patients. His legacy continues through the many surgeons he trained and the countless athletes he helped.

Personal Life

Yocum was married and had two children. He was known for his humility and dedication to his family and profession. Outside of his medical practice, he enjoyed playing golf and was an avid fan of baseball.

Death

Lewis Yocum passed away on May 25, 2013, after battling liver cancer. His death was a significant loss to the medical and sports communities.

Related Pages

• Tommy John surgery
• Frank Jobe
• Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic
• Los Angeles Angels