Top 1% — Elite Historical Figure
Helen Brooke Taussig
Pediatric Cardiology · Congenital Heart Disease
Baltimore, United States
30 H-Index
314 Total Impact
GLLasker Award0
NHPresidential Medal of Freedom (1964)0
Overview
Helen Brooke Taussig was the founder of pediatric cardiology who conceptualized the Blalock-Taussig shunt for blue baby syndrome. Also prevented thalidomide disaster in the US. Based in Baltimore, United States.
For Patients
- Pioneered the Blalock-Taussig shunt (conceptualized), a technique still used by doctors worldwide
- Based at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, United States
Biography
Helen Brooke Taussig was an American cardiologist who founded the field of pediatric cardiology. She conceptualized the Blalock-Taussig shunt procedure that saved thousands of 'blue babies' with cyanotic heart defects, and later was instrumental in preventing the thalidomide disaster in the United States.
Affiliations & Institutions
Research Impact
1 Publications
0 Total Citations
Published In
Commonwealth Fund (Book)
Key Publications
Congenital Malformations of the Heart
Areas of Expertise
Pioneering Techniques
Medical Specialties
Clinical Knowledge & Procedures
Legacy Timeline
The life and contributions of Helen Brooke Taussig
1944
First Blalock-Taussig shunt operation
Her concept was performed by Alfred Blalock on Eileen Saxon, saving the first 'blue baby'
1947
Published 'Congenital Malformations of the Heart'
Wrote the definitive textbook on congenital heart disease
1962
Prevented US thalidomide approval
Traveled to Germany to investigate thalidomide's effects and testified to Congress, preventing its US sale
1964
Presidential Medal of Freedom
Awarded the highest civilian honor for her contributions to medicine
Media Archive