OBITUARY
Jean F. Dubousset (1936-2025)
Professor
Emeritus of the Université René Descartes, Paris
Member of
the Académie Nationale de Médecine, France
Member of
the Académie de Chirurgie, France
|
I |
t is
with deep sorrow that we
announce the passing of Dr. Jean F. Dubousset, an eminent professor of
Orthopedics and Traumatology, who died on May 4, 2025, in Paris, France, at the
age of 88, surrounded by his beloved family and friends. His professional
legacy, human warmth, and unwavering commitment to his patients made him an unforgettable figure and a role model in the
field of medicine.
Born in
Montferrand, Auvergne, France, on November 16, 1936, Dr. Dubousset dedicated
his life to medicine, specializing in orthopedic surgery. He was widely
recognized for his exceptional technical skill and
profound knowledge. He gained acclaim for revolutionizing the treatment of
spinal deformities in children and adolescents, developing innovative
techniques that not only improved clinical outcomes but also brought hope to
countless young patients and their families.
I had the
honor of working alongside Dr. Dubousset at Saint-Vincent-de-Paul Hospital in
Paris from 1982 to 1990. That period transformed my understanding of
orthopedics. I learned not only from his remarkable surgical expertise but also
from his unique ability to connect with each patient. His holistic
approach—combining technique with compassion—was a lasting source of
inspiration.
Together
with Professor Yves Cotrel, Dr. Dubousset earned global recognition for his
work on scoliosis and other spinal deformities. His pioneering surgical
techniques went beyond correcting deformities; they prioritized restoring the
quality of life for young patients. His innovative thinking and steadfast
dedication to research helped countless children and adolescents regain their
health—and often, their self-esteem.
Beyond
the operating room, Dr. Dubousset was a devoted teacher who shared his vast
knowledge with generations of physicians around the world. He instilled in his
students not only a passion for orthopedics but also a profound understanding
of the importance of compassionate care. His commitment to teaching left a
lasting impact, encouraging many to follow the path of integrity and dedication
he exemplified.
He spent
a year in the United States, working in Miami and Texas, where he contributed
his expertise in pediatric orthopedics and neuroorthopedics.
Dr.
Dubousset was a great friend of our country, which he visited several times.
His curious and adventurous spirit even led him to Patagonia to explore why
penguins do not develop scoliosis.
A tireless advocate for research, he actively
participated in numerous scientific conferences and publications. His
contributions significantly advanced the treatment of skeletal deformities, and
many of his insights continue to shape current medical practices.
His curriculum vitae is so vast that it
cannot be fully captured in this tribute.
Beyond
his professional achievements, Dr. Dubousset was an extraordinary human being.
His kindness, generosity, and empathy extended far beyond the medical sphere.
Always ready to listen and to help, he left a deep and lasting impression on
all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Dr. Jean
F. Dubousset leaves behind a legacy of dedication, a profound love for
medicine, and an unwavering respect for human dignity. His influence lives on
in the lives of those who, thanks to his work, found a path to healing. His
memory will continue to inspire all who were touched by his life and work.
Rest in
peace, dear Jean. Your legacy endures in the medical community, in orthopedic
surgeons across the world, in your patients, and in every life you helped
transform.
Dr.
Armando E. Orellano
Former
Physician of the Orthopedics and Traumatology Service,
Hospital
General de Niños “Pedro de Elizalde,”
Autonomous
City of Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Dr. Armando E. Orellano • orequick@gmail.com • https://orcid.org/0009-0000-9885-21533
How to
cite this article: Orellano AE. Obituary. Jean F. Dubousset (1936-2025). Rev Asoc Argent Ortop Traumatol
2025;90(3):304-305. https://doi.org/10.15417/issn.1852-7434.2025.90.3.2166
Article
Info
Identification: https://doi.org/10.15417/issn.1852-7434.2025.90.3.2166
Published: June, 2025
Copyright: © 2025, Revista de la Asociación Argentina de
Ortopedia y Traumatología.
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