The world of thoracic surgery bids farewell today, July 14th, to Professor Emilio Canalis, a renowned thoracic surgeon. Born in Barcelona in 1955, he studied medicine at the University of Barcelona, where he also earned his Doctorate in Medicine and Surgery.
Professor Canalis began his professional career as a resident in Thoracic Surgery at the Hospital Clinic, under the guidance of Professor J. Sanchez-Lloret. After completing his residency, he joined as a staff physician at the “Virgen de Covadonga” Hospital in Oviedo (Asturias). In 1987, he moved to Bilbao to lead the newly established Thoracic Surgery Service at Cruces Hospital, where he also obtained accreditation for training residents in the specialty. In 1991, he joined the Hospital ClÃnic de Barcelona, securing the position of associate professor of Surgery through a competitive exam, and subsequently became Head of the Thoracic Surgery Section and later Chief of the Thoracic Surgery Service at the same hospital. Finally, he moved to Tarragona to serve as Head of the Thoracic Surgery Service and associate professor at the Hospital Juan XXIII.
Professor Canalis always maintained a strong and enthusiastic commitment to Thoracic Surgery, undertaking several internships in hospitals in Canada and the United States (at Toronto General Hospital, Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Barnes Hospital in Saint Louis).
His passion, dedication, and interest in teaching were reflected not only in the training of specialists but also in the education of medical students. Furthermore, he stood out as a fervent advocate and promoter of innovation, demonstrating his commitment by actively participating in the implementation of the Pectus Up Technique for adult patients, becoming one of the first thoracic surgeons in the country to apply this new extrathoracic corrective solution for Pectus Excavatum.
He was a very approachable person for his patients and a collaborative professional, and his character was distinguished by rising above adversities with humor, a trait that always garnered admiration and affection from his colleagues.
For his excellent contributions to Thoracic Surgery throughout his long professional career, Ventura Medical Technologies would like to express our gratitude and honor the memory of his legacy. Rest In Peace.
