In memory of Professor Robert Myles Gibson OBE

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It is with great sadness that we learned of the death of Professor Robert Myles Gibson, Patron of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh’s Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care.

Professor Gibson was a remarkable surgeon, educator and pioneer whose contribution to neurosurgery and pre-hospital care has left a lasting legacy. He played a pivotal role in establishing pre-hospital emergency medicine as a medical speciality, laying the foundations for the Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care in 1996 and serving as its first Chairman for six years.

His influence extended far beyond the College. He made an outstanding contribution to neurosurgery, helped develop the Glasgow Coma Scale, worked extensively to strengthen medical provision within professional football, authoring the Gibson Report impacting the medical organisation and response at football stadia, leading to the development of the Crowd Doctors Course, (now Crowd Doctors & Practitioners Course) with the next course in early September.  He was instrumental in the international ‘Save a Limb, Save a Life’ initiative. His achievements and dedication to improving patient care were recognised with the OBE in 1992 and numerous other honours throughout his distinguished career.

Professor Gibson was also a proud and longstanding Fellow of the College, having been elected in 1956, and served as a Vice President from 1982 - 1985. He remained a committed supporter of the College throughout his life and was particularly passionate about the work of the Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care.

Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh’s President, Professor Clare-Ellen McNaught said:

On behalf of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, I extend my deepest condolences to Professor Gibson’s family, friends, colleagues and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.”

Faculty of Pre Hospital Chair Andrew Smith Said:

On behalf of the Faculty of Pre Hospital Care, Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, we extend our deepest condolences to Professor Gibson’s family, friends, colleagues and all those whose careers have been guided by his support and kindness. A true gentleman who will be so sadly missed.”

His contribution to surgery, pre-hospital care and the wider medical profession will not be forgotten.