On the Shoulders of Giants Through the Lens of the Laparoscope Dr. Harry Reich: Empathy, Optics and Courage

Harry Reich, MD, FACOG, FRCOG, FACS is known worldwide as a pioneer in the field of laparoscopic surgery. He performed the first laparoscopic hysterectomy, the first pelvic lymphadenectomy for cancer, and the first excision of cul-de-sac endometriosis that included rectal resection. This article explores his life and contributions. The author knew Dr. Reich from medical conferences over many years and visited Dr. Reich in Pennsylvania to observe him in the operating room. For this article, the author spoke with Dr. Reich on nearly a nightly basis over a 13-month period in 2022 and 2023. Dr. Reich’s descriptions were cross-referenced with his publications and those of his peers. The author also interviewed physicians who worked closely with Dr. Reich and reviewed the trial transcript of the February 1980 Nesbitt Memorial Hospital special ad hoc investigatory committee. The result is a comprehensive review spanning from Dr. Reich’s early life to his ultimate recognition as one of the most significant innovators of advanced laparoscopic surgery. The author concluded that Dr. Reich’s accomplishments are rooted in his command of pelvic anatomy, his lifelong interest in surgery and his willingness to challenge existing surgical dogma. By attending medical school in Ireland, Dr. Reich benefitted from the deep study of anatomy offered there. He also had a unique background of being a Harvard-trained gynecologic surgeon practicing in Wilkes-Barre, a small Pennsylvania community that trusted him because both his parents practiced medicine there before him. Dr. Reich favored conservative surgery rather than hysterectomy for endometriosis and patiently excised deep disease, offering relief to countless women, at times without compensation. He exhibited astonishing bravery and perseverance in the face of scathing criticism. Dr. Harry Reich’s empathy for his patients and willingness to challenge the status quo were pivotal in improving the lives of many thousands of women and revolutionizing gynecologic surgery.