Prof. Pascal de Lagausie (1960–2016)

Prof. Pascal de Lagausie (1960–2016)

Prof. Pascal de Lagausie has been an outstanding pediatric surgeon whom we will always remember for personal and professional reasons. He was part of a generation of pediatric surgeons who developed and promoted endoscopic surgery in children. Pascal de Lagausie was a true innovator in his field and made significant and lasting contributions to pediatric surgery.

He completed his medical school in Aix-Marseille University, and then moved to Paris for his residency. Later he served as a consultant at the Robert Debre Hospital and finally went back to Marseille, where he was appointed as a Consultant Surgeon and a University Professor at the Timone Hospital in the year 2004. Pascal de Lagausie published more than 170 scientific articles and textbook chapters. He delivered more than 300 lectures and oral communications. His whole life had been dedicated to child care, opera, and rugby!

The members of both hospitals, Robert Debre and Timone Children, recall his dedication, passion, and influence. He traveled extensively lecturing and acting as an ambassador of the French Pediatric Surgery. Registrars who trained with him and visitors who came from all over Europe recall him as an enthusiastic and effective teacher and mentor. Pascal de Lagausie was member of numerous pediatric surgical societies.

He had begun facing health problems 7 years ago, but he continued teaching pediatric surgery at his department and abroad, he was operated every week, and assumed his responsibilities at our congresses and meetings. During the last years, his courage, determination, and mental strength were exceptional and recognized by all people he met. He continued to exhibit optimism day after day.

Pascal de Lagausie passed away quietly, at the age of 55 years, in his home in Marseille with his life partner Claudine, family, and friends by his side.

A good and useful life had ended too early. We will remember Pascal de Lagausie for his dedication, his open mindedness, and his enthusiasm.