Frank Jobe

Frank Jobe (July 16, 1925 – March 6, 2014) was an American orthopedic surgeon who is best known for his pioneering work in sports medicine. He is most famous for developing the Tommy John surgery, a revolutionary procedure that has saved the careers of numerous Major League Baseball (MLB) pitchers.

Early Life and Education

Frank Jobe was born in Greensboro, North Carolina. He served in the United States Army during World War II and later attended La Sierra University in California. He completed his medical degree at the Loma Linda University School of Medicine.

Career

Jobe began his medical career as an orthopedic surgeon and soon became involved with sports medicine. He joined the Los Angeles Dodgers as a team physician in 1964, a position he held for many years. His work with the Dodgers brought him into contact with numerous athletes, leading to significant advancements in the treatment of sports-related injuries.

Tommy John Surgery

In 1974, Jobe performed the first ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction surgery on Tommy John, a pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers. The procedure, now commonly known as Tommy John surgery, involves replacing a damaged ligament in the elbow with a tendon from elsewhere in the patient's body. This surgery has become a standard treatment for pitchers with similar injuries and has extended the careers of many athletes.

Legacy

Frank Jobe's contributions to sports medicine have had a lasting impact on the field. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2013 for his contributions to the sport. His work has been recognized by numerous medical and sports organizations, and he is considered a pioneer in the field of orthopedic surgery.

Personal Life

Jobe was married and had children. He passed away on March 6, 2014, in Santa Monica, California.

See Also

• Tommy John surgery
• Orthopedic surgery
• Sports medicine
• Los Angeles Dodgers