The Dr B. S. Perera Oration
About
A Pioneer in Sri Lankan Anesthesiology
Dr. B.S. Perera was a highly respected figure in the field of anesthesiology in Sri Lanka. He made significant contributions to the advancement of the specialty, particularly in the areas of cardiothoracic anesthesia, hypotensive anesthesia, and hypothermic surgery. His pioneering work laid the foundation for modern anesthesiology practices in the country.
Early life
Dr B. S. Perera was born on 6th October 1917. He had his early education at Prince of Wales College, Moratuwa and later joined St. Joseph’s College, Colombo.
In 1938 he joined the University of Colombo for the 1st MB and in 1939 entered medical college. He graduated in 1945. In 1954 he was appointed as a consultant anaesthetist for the Colombo Group of Hospitals.
In 1974 he was appointed as a senior consultant anaesthetist of the United Christian Hospital in Hong Kong and in 1975 joined the Mersey General Hospital in Tasmania, Australia, where he concentrated mainly on teaching anaesthesiology to medical students. In 1997 he joined the Military Hospital in Colombo, on an honorary basis and retired at the age of 83 years.
A Dedicated Educator
Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Perera was a dedicated educator. He played a crucial role in training the next generation of anesthesiologists, both in Sri Lanka and abroad. His commitment to teaching and research was evident in his roles at various institutions, including the United Christian Hospital in Hong Kong and the Mersey General Hospital in Tasmania.
A Versatile Individual
Apart from his professional achievements, Dr. Perera was a man of diverse interests. He was passionate about breeding and exhibiting boxer dogs, ballroom dancing, singing, and playing contract bridge. His well-rounded personality and active lifestyle were admired by many.
A Lasting Legacy
Dr. B.S. Perera’s legacy lives on through the B.S. Perera oration, an annual event that recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of anesthesiology, pain medicine, and resuscitation science in Sri Lanka. This prestigious award honors his memory and inspires future generations of anesthesiologists. The Oration is awarded to Consultant Anaesthesiologists or Intensivists of Sri Lanka for their outstanding contributions done to the field of Anaesthesiology in Sri Lanka.
