VICTOR GOMEL

Biography

Dr. Gomel is a Professor Emeritus and former Head of Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 1978 – 1993.
Dr. Gomel is internationally known for his pioneering work in both microsurgery and operative laparoscopy. He was responsible for the introduction of laparoscopy in Canada; he was the first to demonstrate the efficacy of laparoscopic fertility-promoting procedures and other general gynecologic procedures using laparoscopic surgical access.
For nearly four decades, Dr. Gomel has been involved in work to better understand the tubal and peritoneal factors that cause infertility, and to improve surgical techniques to correct them. In 1981, he started an in vitro fertilization (IVF) program in Vancouver that was the first in the country to achieve success, resulting in Canada’s first IVF baby on Dec. 25, 1983. Since then, hundreds of children have been born through the program’s reproductive technology.
Dr. Gomel played a major part in creating the BC Women’s Hospital and Health Centre, the first such tertiary facility in Canada, in 1992.

Teaching

Dr. Gomel was responsible for the establishment of a MSc and PhD Program in Reproductive and Developmental Science of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, which has been operative since 1984.
Research Interests/Skills
Dr. Gomel’s special research interests lie in the fields of gynecologic surgery and reproductive medicine. In the field of human reproduction, his work included infertility associated with tubal and peritoneal causes, fertility control, reproductive surgery, operative laparoscopy and in vitro fertilization. His other research interests include reproductive physiology and formation and prevention of peritoneal adhesions.
Publications

Dr. Gomel’s selected publications are:

· Gomel, V., Munro, M. G. & Rowe, T. C. (1990). Gynecology: A Practical Approach. Vancouver, BC: Williams and Wilkins. A problem oriented text designed for medical students, interns, junior residents and general practitioners
· Gomel, V., & Taylor, P. J. (1995). Diagnostic and Operative Gynecologic Laparoscopy. Ann Arbor, MI: Mosby
In recognition of his pioneering work in gynecologic surgery and reproductive medicine, Dr. Gomel was the recipient of the prestigious award of Chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur, given to him by Jacques Chirac, President of France (2003). In 2008 he was elected “Fellow” to the World Academy of Art and Science.