Dr. Edward E. Mason Historical Library

This online historical library is dedicated to our founder, Dr. Edward E. Mason. It honors him, the cause we serve and the vision that we share. We invite you to explore the historical documents, videos and images of the ASMBS journey dating back to 1979.


Edward E. Mason, MD, PhD

Pioneer and Visionary in Bariatric Surgery

Major Accomplishments
  • Inventor of the Gastric Bypass
  • Founder and first president of the ASBS (now ASMBS) from 1983-85
  • Host of the first Bariatric Surgery Colloquium in 1977
  • Initiated the International Bariatric Surgery Registry

Video – A tribute to Dr. Edward Mason

These documents are a historical record of the years before the founding of ASBS, leading into the early years of our society. Explore these historical records of the early days of ASBS, lead by Dr. Edward Mason and other pioneers in bariatric surgery.


Bariatric Surgery Colloquium Meetings (1977-1982)

Take a step back in time and read the proceedings from the Bariatric Surgery Colloquium Meetings documenting the science and thinking during the beginning stages of bariatric surgery.

View the Bariatric Surgery Colloquium Meeting Archive


ASMBS Annual Meetings

These documents provide a record of the proceedings at all past ASMBS/ASBS meetings. Dr. Mason was a pivotal figure in organizing early ASBS meetings, and ASMBS annual meetings continue to be among the largest educational meetings for bariatric surgeons and integrated health professionals from around the world.

View the programs of past ASBS/ASMBS Meetings


Video Archive

View videos from previous ASMBS events, and re-live important moments in ASMBS history. These videos include past Mason Lectures and presidential addresses.

Watch ASMBS Videos


Past Presidents

Hear past presidents reflect on their legacies in the ASMBS Presidential Gallery