Canada’s Pioneering Women of Vascular Surgery: A Historical Review

The historical evolution of women’s participation in the male-dominated field of surgery is an increasingly vital area of study. However, scant attention has been given to the experiences and accomplishments of female vascular surgeons, particularly within the Canadian context.This historical review offers insights into the lives and careers of four pioneering female vascular surgeons in Canada: Dr. R. Paradis, Dr. J. Wong, Dr. P. Gaffiero, and Dr. J. Spelay. Through semi-structured interviews, a biography of each surgeon’s early life, training milestones, professional challenges, and career accomplishments was created. Narrative analysis of all interviews was also completed to identify themes from subjects’ collective memories and perceptions. Prominent themes included: Formative mentorship during medical training, benefiting from de-centralized fellowship selection; Limitations on practice set by family duties, Experiences of gender bias creating challenges with other healthcare professionals; and Lack of identity with the legacy of ‘the first female vascular surgeon’ in her respective province.  The landscape of vascular surgery training and the presence of women in the field have evolved significantly since the inception of this medical specialty in Canada. Consequently, the documentation of vascular surgery history and the progress made in achieving gender representation have taken on new-found significance. As the pioneering female vascular surgeons approach retirement and a new generation of surgeons join the field, lessons learned in the process of forging gender diversity in vascular surgery may be useful as diversity in other aspects of the field is sought.