Professor Vladimir Ivanovich Shevtsov celebrates his 85th anniversary on December 30. He is a student and follower of Academician G.A. Ilizarov, an Honored Scientist of the Russian Federation, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, recipient of the State Prize of the Russian Federation for Science and Technology, the Orders “For Merit to the Fatherland” and “The Badge of Honor”, Doctor of Medical Sciences. One of the world's renowned scientist started his career as a surgeon at the Yurgamysh district hospital in the Kurgan region and advanced to the Head of a world-famous Center where he successfully worked for many years after the death of the Teacher.

Scientific activity of V.I. Shevtsov is associated with the development of the method of transosseous osteosynthesis represented in numerous publications, dozens of monographs and manuals, more than two hundred copyright certificates for inventions and patents. In his doctoral dissertation, he first reported the wealth of experience in the method used in outpatient settings, the socio-economic, clinical and rehabilitation role based on large clinical material. It was relevant and time-bound due to a great number of pertinent patients.

Vladimir Ivanovich has also emerged as a talented leader and organizer. As directed, scientific research and innovations were used to substantiate the effectiveness of the methods developed in experimental and clinical settings with Ilizarov applications being employed beyond traditional trauma and orthopaedic practices. New departments for spinal pathology, vascular pathology, microsurgery were established at the Center.

A teacher is always rich in his students. Vladimir Ivanovich could combine the administrative and scientific work and helped dozens of scientists start their career. With extensive clinical experience he provided expert guidance and support for more than 40 masters and 30 doctoral students.

Vladimir Ivanovich has been actively involved in social activities for many years, and his experience and knowledge are in demand today.

Achievements of Professor V.I. Shevtsov were highly appreciated by the country's leadership and the world scientific community; he received many Russian and international awards and prizes. In 1997, Vladimir Ivanovich was presented with a personal award – the scepter of Earthmaker – the person who determines the identity of planet Earth; The American Biographical Institute (ABI) included his name in the publication “Great Minds of the 21st Century” and awarded him Diploma for his great contribution to the development of traumatology and orthopaedics. The 2007 Russian Federation National "Russian of the Year" Award was presented to Professor for outstanding achievements in science and healthcare, the intelligence and talent of a surgeon, inexhaustible energy and hard work. The Committee on Public Awards and Titles awarded Vladimir Ivanovich the highest Russian order of public recognition, “Honorary Citizen of Russia,” for his long-term and fruitful activities contributing to the strengthening of the power, mightiness and prosperity of the Russian Federation. Today Professor V.I. Shevtsov is on a well-deserved retirement, but is still full of scientific ideas and generously shares his knowledge and experience with young colleagues.

The staff of the Ilizarov Center and the editorial board of the “Genius of Orthopaedics” Journal congratulate Vladimir Ivanovich on his anniversary and wish him good health, happiness and many more years of success.