Gimbernat y Arbós, Antonio de (1734-1816)

Don Manuel Louise Antonio de Gimbernat y Arbós, Spanish anatomist and surgeon, was one of the pioneers during the "age of dissection" (late eighteenth century). A bright young mind, Gimbernat was confident and audacious, which allowed him to become a recognized surgeon with a famed reputation that influenced his colleagues internationally. The Spaniard was most widely recognized for his advancements in the treatment of strangulated femoral hernias, and the lacunar ligament was named "Gimbernat's ligament" in his honor. In 1793, he published Nuevo Método de operar en la Hernia Crural dedicated to King Charles IV, which was translated into English by Thomas Beddoes 2 years later. Gimbernat's daring procedures helped improve safety and efficiency of hernia surgery. A person of great determination, he was known as a brilliant, meticulous, and creative man who exemplified the importance of surgeons. His devoted study of anatomy, especially of inguinal anatomy, allowed him to devise a legendary surgical technique in repairing femoral hernias, influencing renowned surgeons of his time and thereafter.