Liselotte Mettler – A Woman in Medicine

When introduced at a medical congress as “one of the most distinguished women in gynecology,” it is clear that the remarkable career of Liselotte Mettler of Kiel University Hospital deserves closer attention. Pursuing her career under circumstances that were often challenging and not infrequently marked by prejudice, Liselotte Mettler assumed ever greater responsibility for the entire clinic, while making pioneering contributions in the fields of endoscopy and reproductive medicine. The development and establishment of gynecological endoscopic surgery—from laparoscopic minimally-invasive procedures to robot-assisted surgery—and the immense benefits that have resulted from this revolutionary advance are inextricably linked to her life's work. Equally significant was her contribution to the evolution of in vitro fertilization, guiding the field from the fragile and uncertain beginnings of reproductive medicine to the successful application of extracorporeal fertilization. One tribute to her achievements aptly states: “Thanks to her research, countless families have experienced the joy of having a child of their own.” The breadth of Liselotte Mettler's experience and achievements is of lasting importance not only to colleagues in the medical profession and to students of medicine, but also to the wider public. At the same time, her pioneering role helped pave the way for women physicians to attain leadership positions in academic medicine, leaving a legacy that extends well beyond her own field.