John Elias Skandalakis, MD, PhD, FACS (1920–2009)

Abstract

The impact of a person’s life can often be measured accurately by notable contributions to humanity, whether the benefits are in ones own country or are internationally recognized. Dr. John E. Skandalakis impacted the lives of his countrymen as a leading member of the Greek Resistance in World War II, and many thousands of patients, physicians and students throughout the world. He was a beloved healer, teacher, and respected scholar, who left a remarkable legacy with his expertise, dedication, time, and skill in medical practice and research. Known affectionately to many (including his secretarial staff and colleagues) as ‘‘Dr. Skan,’’ he was our teacher, esteemed scholar, mentor, and, most importantly, cherished friend. Dr. John Elias Skandalakis was born in 1920 in Sparta, Greece, as the son of a district attorney. In 1946, he earned a medical degree from the University of Athens (summa cum laude). He received his certification in General Surgery from the University of Athens in 1950. His training was at the First Surgical Clinic, Athens University and at the Naval Hospital in Piraeus, Greece. His patriotic zeal led him to fight honorably for his nation in the Greek Resistance during World War II and continued military efforts against Communism thereafter. For his bravery and commitment to his country, Dr. Skandalakis was awarded a medal by the Greek government for his clandestine activities that helped save many lives, including the Jewish residents of Athens. He was a man who endured many personal hardships, including the deaths of members of his family and friends, who were murdered during World War II. Putting aside personal grief and the avenue of bitterness in favor of a life dedicated to humankind, he desired to expand his knowledge and skills. This internal drive led him to the United States and to a surgical residency. Thereafter, his love of human anatomy led Dr. Skandalakis to complete the requirements for a doctorate in Anatomy from Emory University School of Medicine in 1962. He rose quickly through the academic ranks and became Professor of Anatomy and Professor of Surgery. With contributions both from his avid interest in research, his numerous publications and his expertise as an educator, Dr. Skandalakis excelled in molding some of the best physicians and researchers in the United States and abroad. During his time at Emory University, Dr. Skandalakis served as Professor of Anatomy, Professor of Surgery, and Professor of Surgical Anatomy and Technique, and he established the Thalia and Michael Carlos Centers for Surgical Anatomy and Technique and the Alfred A. Davis Research Center for Surgical Anatomy and Technique. The compassion with which he taught students, combined with his immense knowledge of human anatomy, made him one of the most beloved professors at Emory University. In 1981, he was awarded the Aven Cup by the Medical Association of Georgia for outstanding service to the community by a doctor. In 1999, he received the distinguished Medical Achievement Award from the Emory University School of Medicine (Bendavid, in press). During his active time at the institution, Dr. Skandalakis authored more than 300 publications, including journal articles, books, book chapters, and monographs. His love for the art and science of human anatomy is demonstrated in his three most famous books: Embryology for Surgeons, Anatomical Complications in General Surgery, and Surgical Anatomy and Technique: a Pocket Manual. His twovolume text, Surgical Anatomy, the Embryologic and Anatomic Basis of Modern Medicine, could be