Sigvard Hansen Jr., MD, and professor emeritus in the Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine at the UW School of Medicine, passed away on Nov. 11, 2023. Known as the “father of modern traumatology,” Hansen advanced the field of orthopedic traumatology by advocating for the aggressive and immediate fixation of all major fractures for patients with multiple traumatic injuries.
Along with his role as a pioneer in orthopedic traumatology, Hansen advanced foot and ankle surgery as an integral part of trauma care and elective treatments. During his 40-year career on the faculty at the UW School of Medicine, he also taught and trained hundreds of accomplished trauma and foot and ankle surgeons.
“Dr. Hansen’s innovations and expertise spanned much of orthopedics, and he was the rare surgeon that changed the way two orthopedic subspecialties are practiced — orthopedic trauma surgery as well as foot and ankle surgery,” says Howard Chansky, MD, professor and chair of the Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. “The legend of Dr. Hansen pales in comparison to the accomplishments and character of the actual person.”
Read more about Hansen’s life and career accomplishments in the Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma, also on the Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine website.
