Stanley J Dudrick: A Life of a Giant in Surgery and Surgical Decision to Transition to a New Role or No Role At All

For the first edition of this book, I have asked my mentor, and true friend, the world most renowned surgeon, Professor Stanley J Dudrick to write the chapter on when should we quit. He had just retired from clinical practice after illustrious career that span over six-decades. The reader has the opportunity to read his chapter that we are republishing in its entirety. In this short editorial commentary, I wanted the reader to know more in depth the author, as a renowned surgeon and pioneer in the field of parenteral nutrition, surgery, and medicine. He is known for revolutionizing the treatment of patients who are unable to eat through traditional means by developing the concept of total parenteral nutrition (TPN). This breakthrough method involves providing essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. In the chapter, the reader will learn a story of Dr. Stanley J Dudrick, a giant of surgery, and understand the thought process and journey that a surgeon undergoes during the transition from an active and busy clinical practice to non-operative contributions.