In Memoriam - Dr. Stephan Gordts
Dr. Stephan Gordts completed his medical studies at the Catholic University of Leuven, where he specialized in Obstetrics and Gynaecology between 1973 and 1978.
At the Catholic University of Leuven, he also trained in microsurgery and participated in several international workshops. As a reproductive surgeon deeply involved in fertility treatments, he played an important role in the development of Belgium’s first IVF baby in 1983.
In 1984, he left the Catholic University of Leuven to establish a private fertility centre.
He was co-founder and Scientific Chairman of the LIFE Institute (Leuven Institute for Fertility & Embryology).
From 1992 to 1995, he served as Associate Professor at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL) in Brussels, where he was responsible for the IVF unit.
Dr. Gordts was the inventor of Transvaginal Hydrolaparoscopy, a minimally invasive technique allowing detailed examination of the fallopian tubes and ovaries.
In 1998, he received the ASRM/IFFS Award for his video presentation entitled “Transvaginal Hydro Laparoscopy: Visualization of Oocyte Release and Fimbrial Pick-up”.
Throughout his career, he was actively involved in several international reproductive medicine societies:
• Former Coordinator of the ESHRE-ART Centre Certification for Good Clinical Practice (ARTCC)
• Former Coordinator of the Special Interest Group on Reproductive Surgery within ESHRE and ESGE
• Former Coordinator of the ESHRE Certification for Reproductive Endoscopic Surgeons (ECRES)
• Former Coordinator of the CONUTA Task Force on Congenital Uterine Anomalies, a joint initiative of ESHRE and ESGE
Until his passing, he remained actively engaged in the field of reproductive medicine. His particular interests included providing second opinions after unsuccessful fertility treatments and conducting scientific research into ovarian rejuvenation using Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP).
Dr. Stephan Gordts leaves behind an exceptional scientific and clinical legacy. His pioneering work, innovative vision and lifelong dedication have had a lasting impact on reproductive medicine and on the lives of countless patients and families around the world.