David C. Shonka, Jr.

David C. Shonka, Jr., MD is an Associate Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Virginia (UVA). He is a fellowship-trained head and neck endocrine and oncologic surgeon specializing in thyroid cancer, parathyroid surgery, and complex head and neck malignancies.

• Primary Education: University of Virginia School of Medicine
• Residency: University of Virginia School of Medicine
• Fellowship: University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine

His research focuses on:

• Thyroid and parathyroid disorders
• Quality metrics in endocrine surgery
• Transoral robotic surgery outcomes
• Cancer tumor biomarkers
• Medical imaging modalities

Recent publications analyze ablation technologies, mutational testing, and imaging innovations for thyroid and parathyroid conditions. Scientific awards include the 2019 Best Bedside Manner Award and inclusion in the Best Doctors in America® List (2017-2020). He actively mentors medical students and residents in clinical research and serves on national endocrine surgery committees.

• American Head and Neck Society
• American Thyroid Association
• American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
• American College of Surgeons

Dr. Shonka provides interdisciplinary care with endocrinologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. He offers office-based diagnostics like ultrasound and needle biopsies while performing high-complexity surgeries post-radiation or prior surgery.