In loving memory of Prof. Paolo Pelosi: A Pioneer in Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine who celebrated life and considered anaesthesiology a “lifestyle” profession

Today, we lost Professor Paolo Pelosi, an esteemed figure in the field of anaesthesiology and intensive care medicine. On May 30, 2023, Professor Pelosi passed away, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional contributions to medical research, clinical practice, and education. His untimely departure is a great loss to the medical community worldwide.

Born in Milan, Italy, in 1963, Professor Paolo Pelosi demonstrated an exceptional aptitude for medicine from an early age. He pursued his academic journey at the University of Milan, where he graduated magna cum laude in Medicine and Surgery. This was just the beginning of his remarkable career that spanned several decades.

Following his graduation, Professor Pelosi embarked on a journey of specialisation and research, achieving remarkable milestones along the way. He became a Specialist in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care and subsequently a Research Fellow in Anaesthesiology at the University of Milan. His thirst for knowledge and dedication to his craft led him to serve as an Associate Professor in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine at the University of Insubria, Varese, from 1999 to 2010.

In recent years, Professor Pelosi held the prestigious position of Chief Professor in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care at the University of Genoa. He also served as the Director of the Speciality School in Anaesthesiology and headed the Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Unit at the renowned San Martino Policlinico Hospital in Genoa, Italy. As the President of the College of Professors in Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care in Italy, he played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the discipline in his country.

Professor Pelosi’s influence extended far beyond the borders of Italy. He was an influential figure in numerous international organisations and societies associated with Anaesthesiology and Critical Care. Notably, he served as the President of the European Society of Anaesthesiology (ESA) from 2010 to 2011, where he made significant contributions to the advancement of the field on a global scale. Additionally, he held key positions in the European Respiratory Society (ERS) and the World Federation of Societies of Intensive Care and Critical Care Medicine (WFSCCM), demonstrating his commitment to fostering collaboration and progress in the medical community.

Throughout his illustrious career, Professor Paolo Pelosi made substantial contributions to the field of anaesthesiology and intensive care through his groundbreaking research. His primary focus was on respiratory physiology in the perioperative period and in critically ill patients. He spearheaded the establishment of the Protective Ventilation Network (PROVEnet), a multinational team of researchers dedicated to investigating protective ventilation and its impact on patient outcomes. Through PROVEnet, Professor Pelosi played a pivotal role in organising large-scale databases, observational trials, and randomised controlled trials worldwide, thus revolutionising the field of Anaesthesiology.

As an accomplished author and speaker, Professor Pelosi’s knowledge and expertise were widely recognised and respected. His publications included over 400 original papers, 163 papers under invitation, and 105 book chapters, covering a range of topics related to ventilation management, perioperative care, and the treatment of acute respiratory failure. He delivered lectures at numerous national and international meetings, sharing his insights and findings with fellow researchers, medical professionals, and students.

Professor Paolo Pelosi’s profound impact and tireless dedication earned him numerous accolades and honours throughout his career. He was the recipient of the esteemed T. Cecil Grey BJA medal and held the distinction of being an International member of the Brazilian Academy of Medicine. His contributions to the field were further recognised through honorary memberships in several scientific societies of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care across Europe and beyond.

Beyond his professional achievements, Professor Paolo Pelosi was admired and beloved for his unwavering dedication to education and mentorship. He actively participated in fellowship and resident educational programs, shaping the minds and careers of future anaesthesiologists. His passion for teaching, combined with his vast knowledge and experience, inspired countless individuals in the field.

Professor Paolo Pelosi leaves behind a profound and enduring legacy. His remarkable contributions to the field of anaesthesiology and intensive care medicine have revolutionised patient care and shaped the future of the discipline. He will be remembered for his intellectual brilliance, leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing medical knowledge.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to Professor Pelosi’s family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched. May his legacy continue to inspire generations of medical professionals, and may he rest in eternal peace.