PROFESSOR Calvin Coffey, academic head of surgery at University Hospital Limerick (UHL) and foundation chair of surgery at the University of Limerick, was formally recognised as one of the world’s leading master clinicians.
He was awarded the Ian Lavery Master Clinician in Colorectal Surgery Lectureship and Visiting Professorship — the highest honour bestowed by the Department of Colorectal Surgery at the Cleveland Clinic, one of the world’s foremost surgical institutions.
The award, established to celebrate the legacy of Dr Ian C Lavery, honours a Cleveland Clinic alumnus who exemplifies surgical excellence, innovation, and mentorship.
Dr Lavery, a pioneer in colorectal surgery, transformed the treatment of colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease, and is known globally for his clinical skill, humility, and dedication to teaching.
Prof Coffey’s contributions include leading the introduction of robotic-assisted colorectal, urological, and gynaecological surgery at UHL.
In 2017, he gained international acclaim for reclassifying the mesentery as a new human organ, reshaping abdominal anatomy and prompting updates to authoritative texts like Gray’s Anatomy.
Building on this research, Prof Coffey developed a surgical technique involving mesenteric removal during bowel resection, reducing Crohn’s disease recurrence rates from 40 per cent to 4 per cent.
“On behalf of the team of people I work with, I’m delighted to receive the 2025 Ian Lavery Master Clinician Award,” Prof Coffey said.
“The award acknowledges the ongoing commitment of us all here at UHL and across the acute hospitals of the Mid West, and the University of Limerick, to provide surgery of the highest international standards.”