KBE, CB, CVO, KB, MRCS Eng, FRCS Eng, Hon. DSc Leeds
Arthur Robson was born in Filey, the son of chemist John Robson. He trained in medicine at Leeds and gained a large number of prizes. From 1876 to 1886 he was lecturer in Anatomy at the school. In 1882 he was elected, with Fergusson McGill, to the new posts of Assistant Surgeon at the Infirmary, becoming full Surgeon two years later. In 1886 he became lecturer in Pathology and, from 1888, lecturer in operative surgery. On the early death of McGill, who had held the chair in Surgery since 1887, he became Professor of Surgery at the Infirmary in 1890.
He was a pioneer of surgery of the gall bladder and biliary ducts. He also undertook orthopaedic surgery, successfully operating on torn cartilages in the knee before orthopaedics became a separate specialty. He was known for his speed and skill and built up a considerable reputation. In 1902 he decided to move to London to pursue his career further. He was awarded an honorary degree by Leeds University in 1904 and was knighted in 1908. He joined the territorial forces and in 1914 went to France with a Field Ambulance. This was followed by further distinguished service in other theatres throughout the war.
