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Father of Modern Cardiovascular Surgery

Mike Mitka

JAMA. 2005;293:913-918.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

Many consider Michael E. DeBakey, MD, to be the greatest surgeon ever.

Over a 74-year career, the 96-year-old DeBakey has performed more than 60 000 surgeries and published more than 1600 scientific articles. His research was key to the creation of the heart-lung machine, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, and carotid endarterectomy. Today his focus is on refining his left ventricular assist device. During World War II, DeBakey helped develop the concept of front-line medical treatment now known as the mobile army surgical hospital, or MASH unit. He also maneuvered through the politics of Washington and the military to help create the National Library of Medicine.

His awards include the Albert Lasker Award for Clinical Research, the National Medal of Science, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction. He has been on the cover of Time magazine.

A FOCUS ON PATIENTS

Still, for all his accomplishments and honors, DeBakey has always focused . . . [Full Text of this Article]