In Memoriam: Paul M. Pellicci, MD

We are deeply saddened to share that our former colleague Paul Pellicci, MD passed away on Tuesday, November 21, 2023.

A graduate of Johns Hopkins University and Cornell University Medical College, Dr. Pellicci completed residency at New York Hospital, Cornell Medical Center / Hospital For Special Surgery and his fellowship at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard in 1980. He returned to HSS, where he served as an attending surgeon until his retirement in 2019. During his time at HSS, Dr. Pellicci was Chief of the Hip Service from 1993 until 2005 and served in several other leadership roles during his career. He received the Philip D. Wilson Jr., MD Teaching Award in 1996 and 2005. In 2018, Dr. Pellicci was honored at the HSS Gala with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Dr. Pellicci was one of the youngest surgeons ever to be admitted to the prestigious Hip Society and over his career he had authored or co-authored nearly one hundred articles in peer-reviewed journals, written numerous textbook chapters and instructional manuals. His research interests involved complete anatomic restoration of the soft tissue structures following total hip replacement. Dr. Pellicci was a mentor and inspiration to countless young surgeons, shaping the future of orthopedic surgery. Colleagues remember him not only for his medical expertise but also for his compassion and dedication to patient care and unwavering support of the residents and fellows. 
 
He leaves behind a legacy with countless accomplishments, leadership and recognition across his advisory, clinical research and consulting roles across HSS. 

“He has always led with his character, way beyond how to take a history, how to do a physical exam, and how to do an operation—but how to lead your life. The patient always came first.”
—David W. Altchek, MD 

“His superior surgical techniques have created a longstanding foundation for joint replacements, and the surgeon community is grateful for his exemplary work.”
—Todd J. Albert, MD 

“Despite being one of the busiest surgeons at HSS, I’ll forever remember Dr. Pellicci’s ability to balance his commitment to clinical excellence with his firm commitment to family as a loving husband and father.” 
—Douglas Padgett, MD

 

On behalf of the entire HSS community we extend our condolences to Dr. Pellicci’s family and other loved ones. 

Sincerely,
 
Douglas Padgett, MD
Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director

Bryan Kelly, MD, MBA
President and CEO