Greats in the History of Thrombosis and Hemostasis

It is with great enthusiasm that I read the recent article by Emmanuel J. Favaloro, PhD, FFSc, on “Evolution of Hemostasis Testing: A Personal Reflection Covering over 40 Years of History.”[1] Favaloro's historical depiction of this relevant subject and account of his own career in the field of thrombosis and hemostasis is much more than just curious. This manuscript provides a healthy milieu that may be unknown to a large group of healthcare providers in various disciplines who provide care to patients with diverse coagulation disorders.

As a clinician for the past several decades—with emphasis in the management of patients with various pathological disorders requiring anticoagulation treatment in the cardiovascular and the critical care intensive care units—I have observed the evolution that Favaloro has eloquently elucidated, though I did not have a distinct appreciation for the fervor, fortitude, and commitment portrayed in his chronicle.

In an era of continually growing demand in healthcare, a rich historical understanding of the past would provide a healthy context in any medical or surgical field and may create a forum for a greater appreciation of the present, as well as a solid platform for what may be possible in the future. In my humble opinion, as Jack Hirsh is a giant in the field of antithrombotics,[2] Favaloro is a giant in the field of thrombosis and hemostasis. And, as another giant aptly stated decades ago “Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.” By Winston Churchill in 1942.

Hence, it was judicious to read the recent contribution from Hirsh et al,[3] Favaloro,[1] and other well-referenced distinguished experts in the field of thrombosis and hemostasis.[4] [5] I respectfully endorse the recent series of historical publications in this journal and encourage the existing and emerging members in the field to acquire pertinent knowledge from these celebrated scholars, investigators, and mentors who have passionately dedicated their professional careers to enhance our understanding of the complex intricacies of thrombosis and hemostasis.

Publication History

Article published online:
10 July 2023

• References

• 1 Favaloro EJ. Evolution of hemostasis testing: a personal reflection covering over 40 years of history. Semin Thromb Hemost 2024; 50 (01) 8-25
• 2 Bounameaux H, Perrier A. A half-century of developments in the field of antithrombotics-a tribute to Jack Hirsh. Eur J Intern Med 2020; 75: 23-24
• 3 Hirsh J, de Vries TAC, Eikelboom JW, Bhagirath V, Chan NC. Clinical studies with anticoagulants that have changed clinical practice. Semin Thromb Hemost 2023; 49 (03) 242-254
• 4 Favaloro EJ. Celebrating 50 years of seminars in thrombosis and hemostasis-Part I. Semin Thromb Hemost 2022; 48 (08) 871-874
• 5 Favaloro EJ. Celebrating 50 years of seminars in thrombosis and hemostasis-Part II. Semin Thromb Hemost 2023; 49 (03) 212-216