Maria Delivoria-Papadopoulos, MD

Maria Delivoria-Papadopoulos, MD Pioneering Neonatologist and Perinatal Researcher

Dr. Maria Delivoria-Papadopoulos has served over sixty years of medical practice and pioneering work in neonatology and perinatal medical research. Maria performed the world’s first successful use of a ventilator to treat premature newborns suffering from respiratory distress syndrome.

In 1964, prior to her joining the Penn faculty, she resuscitated an 1800-gm (4-lb) premature infant suffering from respiratory distress syndrome at thirty-four weeks gestation that had had a complete cardiorespiratory arrest. Using the Bird respirator, she ventilated the infant for twelve days, after which it was able to survive on its own.

She has been recognized with countless honors and awards throughout her career and is a member of numerous professional organizations including the American Pediatric Society, the American Physiological Society, the Society for Pediatric Research, and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Submitted by Melpo Christofidou-Solomidou, Ph.D.