Thiruvananthapuram: Dr Cherian M Thomas, one of Kerala’s most respected orthopaedic surgeons, former professor of Orthopaedics at govt medical college, Thiruvananthapuram, passed away on Sunday. He was 83.A distinguished clinician, surgeon and teacher, Thomas devoted more than four decades to patient care and medical education, earning the admiration of colleagues, students and thousands of patients across the state.During his tenure at govt medical college, Thiruvananthapuram, he trained generations of orthopaedic surgeons. Widely regarded as a brilliant diagnostician and meticulous surgeon, he was known for his exceptional clinical acumen, unwavering discipline and commitment to excellence. His bedside teaching, ward rounds and operating theatre sessions left a lasting impact on countless medical graduates, many of whom credit him with shaping their professional lives.After retiring from govt service, Thomas was chief consultant at SP Fort Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram. Colleagues remember him not only for his surgical expertise but also for his compassion, humility and dedication to ethical medical practice.Tributes poured in from the medical fraternity, with former students describing him as a mentor whose teachings extended beyond textbooks to values of punctuality, discipline and respect for patients. Hospital staff remembered him as the heart and soul of SP Fort Healthcare family, whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations of healthcare professionals.Thomas is survived by his wife Rebecca Cherian, son Dr Thomas Cherian, daughter Dr Sarah Cherian, daughter-in-law Dr Bindu Abraham and son-in-law Dr Thomas Arun Varghese.His body has been kept at his residence in Aluva from 5pm on Sunday until 10am on Monday. The funeral will be held at Moria Mar Thoma Church, Ericadu, Puthuppally, at 3pm on Monday.
