John Lizars

Scottish surgeon and anatomist

John Lizars (1792 – 21 May 1860) was a prominent Scottish surgeon and anatomist known for his contributions to surgical techniques and anatomical education. He was a key figure in the medical community of Edinburgh during the 19th century.

Early Life and Education

John Lizars was born in 1792 in Edinburgh, Scotland. He was the son of Daniel Lizars, a publisher and engraver, and the brother of William Home Lizars, a noted engraver and painter. Lizars pursued his medical education at the University of Edinburgh, where he studied under some of the leading medical minds of the time.

Career

Lizars began his medical career as an assistant to the renowned surgeon Robert Liston. He quickly established himself as a skilled surgeon and was appointed as a surgeon to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. Lizars was known for his innovative surgical techniques and his ability to perform complex operations.

Contributions to Surgery

One of Lizars' most notable contributions to surgery was his work on the ovariotomy, a surgical procedure to remove ovarian tumors. He was one of the first surgeons to perform this operation successfully, which was a significant advancement in the field of gynecological surgery.

Anatomical Education

Lizars was also a dedicated educator and contributed to the field of anatomical education. He published several works on anatomy, including "A System of Anatomical Plates of the Human Body," which was widely used by medical students and professionals. His detailed anatomical illustrations were highly regarded for their accuracy and clarity.

Later Life and Death

In his later years, Lizars continued to practice surgery and teach anatomy. He passed away on 21 May 1860 in Edinburgh. Lizars is buried in St Cuthbert's Churchyard, Edinburgh.

The grave of John Lizars in St Cuthbert's Churchyard, Edinburgh

Legacy

John Lizars left a lasting impact on the field of surgery and medical education. His pioneering work in ovariotomy paved the way for future advancements in surgical techniques. His contributions to anatomical education helped shape the training of future generations of surgeons.

Related Pages

• Robert Liston
• Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
• University of Edinburgh
• William Home Lizars

38 York Place, Edinburgh, where John Lizars lived