History

In the late 1960’s the preeminent surgical meeting in the west was hosted by The Society of Graduate Surgeons of Los Angeles County. This meeting was regularly attended by prominent Phoenix Surgeons including Howard Kimball, John Wruzinski, Phillip Saba, Jean Angelchik, Macdonald Wood, Daniel Kuntz, and Jim Berens.

The meeting was held in the Coconut Grove Ballroom in the then famous Ambassador Hotel. The meeting was very popular and showcased the state of the art in general surgery. Surgical giants from across the country presented their work during this 5-day meeting.

After one such meeting, the Phoenix surgeons decided a similar meeting could be held in Phoenix. The excellent wintertime weather and top-notch resorts would provide the perfect setting.

In 1971 the 1st meeting of The Phoenix Surgical Society was held. Initially, the meeting lasted 5 days and was a very popular destination for surgeons from across the country.

The founding members set the stage for an exceptional educational experience. Early speakers at the symposium included such pioneers as Owen Wangensteen, Tom Starzl, Robert Zollinger, and Dean Warren.

Through the years the society has continued to be blessed with nationally and internationally recognized surgeons.