Lewis Spitz

Lewis Spitz (born 25 August 1939 in Pretoria ) is a paediatric surgeon who is internationally recognised as a leader in paediatric surgery and is known for his work on congenital abnormalities of the oesophagus, particularly oesophageal atresia, oesophageal replacement and gastroesophageal reflux especially in neurologically impaired children. He championed the plight of children with cerebral palsy and other congenital disorders; demonstrating that appropriate surgery could improve their quality of life. He is the leading authority in the management of conjoined twins and is recognised as the foremost international expert in this field. Spitz is the Emeritus Nuffield Professor of Paediatric Surgery.

Life Spitz undertook his early education, at the Christian Brothers' College in Pretoria. Spitz's clinical training took place at Pretoria University, graduating in 1962, which a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery. Honorary Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, 2012

Awards and honours In 2002, Spitz was awarded the Clement Price Thomas Award, named after Clement Price Thomas, In recognition of his outstanding contributions to treatment of conjoined twins. In 2002, Spitz was also awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Sheffield. In 2004, he was awarded the James Spence Medal. In 2012, Spitz was awarded the American Ladd Medal, the highest award of the surgical section of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Spitz was also awarded the Sulamaa Medal from the Finnish Association of Pediatric Surgery, and as an expert visitor, Spitz gave the coveted Sulamaa Lecture.