In Memoriam: Dr. Rick van Saene (1946–2026) - Takeaways - MDSpire

In Memoriam: Dr. Rick van Saene (1946–2026)

  • By

  • Hans Rommes

  • Andy Petros

  • Durk Zandstra

  • Nia Taylor

  • Luciano Silvestri

  • Francisco Abecasis

  • April 27, 2026

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    Dr. Rick van Saene, a physician-microbiologist, passed away on March 25, 2026, in Liverpool, UK.

  • 2

    He introduced the selective decontamination of the digestive tract (SDD), revolutionizing infection control in critically ill patients.

  • 3

    Van Saene's work led to over 73 randomized controlled trials, making SDD the most researched intervention in Intensive Care Medicine.

  • 4

    Despite facing health challenges after an intracerebral hemorrhage in 2006, he continued to support and mentor junior colleagues.

  • 5

    His contributions to medicine have saved countless lives, and he is remembered as a dedicated leader in the intensive care community.

Original Source(s)

In Memoriam: Dr. Rick van Saene (1946–2026)

  • by Hans Rommes, Andy Petros, Durk Zandstra, Nia Taylor, Luciano Silvestri, Francisco Abecasis

  • April 27, 2026

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