Dr. K. Mathangi Ramakrishnan, one of India’s most distinguished plastic and reconstructive surgeons, passed away on October 27, 2025, in Chennai at the age of 91. Revered for her pioneering work in burn care and plastic surgery, she was a trailblazer who established the first government-run comprehensive burns unit in South India at Government Kilpauk Medical College (KMC), Chennai. Her career was marked by a deep blend of clinical brilliance, innovation, and compassion, especially for underprivileged patients.
Early Life and Medical Journey
- Born: 1934
- Medical Degree: MBBS from Madras Medical College
- Advanced Training: UK and University of Maryland, USA, in plastic and reconstructive surgery
- Prof. Mathangi’s return to India led to path-breaking contributions in public healthcare, especially in burn wound management and rehabilitation.
Institutional Legacy and Contributions
She,
- Founded the plastic surgery and burns department at KMC, Chennai
- Led the unit as Professor and HOD before retirement
- Continued as Emeritus Professor at Dr. MGR Medical University
- Collaborated with Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) to develop an indigenous collagen membrane for burn wound cover, revolutionizing affordable care for burn victims
- Her department remains Tamil Nadu’s nodal government burns centre, saving and rehabilitating thousands of lives annually.
Awards and Recognitions
Dr. Mathangi Ramakrishnan received numerous accolades for her exemplary service,
- Padma Shri (2002) – India’s fourth-highest civilian award
- Dr. B.C. Roy National Award – For clinical excellence
- Avvaiyar Award (2014) – From the Government of Tamil Nadu for pediatric burn care
- Sushruta Gold Medal – From the Association of Surgeons of India
- Lifetime Achievement Award – From the National Academy of Burns India
- G. Whitaker International Burns Prize (2009) – Palermo, Italy
Research, Mentorship, and Global Outreach
- Published in major Indian and international medical journals
- Authored books and chapters on plastic surgery and burn care
- Trained and mentored multiple generations of plastic surgeons in India
Held key positions in,
- Burns Association of India
- International Society for Burn Injuries
- National Academy of Medical Sciences
- Asian Pacific Plastic Surgery Confederation
Personal Life and Final Years
- Dr. Mathangi was also the chairperson of the CHILDS Trust Medical Research Foundation, Chennai — a hospital founded by her late husband, Dr. M.S. Ramakrishnan.
- She is survived by her daughter Priya Ramachandran, son-in-law B. Ramachandra, and grandsons Hari and Keshav Ramachandran. In a final act of service, her eyes were donated to Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai.