Peter J. Evans, MD, PhD, is a Professor and Division Chair of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rehabilitation, and Sports Therapy at Cleveland Clinic Florida. He holds dual appointments in Hand Surgery and Sports Medicine. His clinical expertise spans shoulder, elbow, and hand surgery including joint replacements, complex reconstructions, and sports-related injuries. Dr. Evans completed his medical training at the University of Calgary and University of Toronto, with specialized fellowships in Toronto and Wake Forest. He has authored numerous publications and holds patents including the Universal carpal tunnel guide. Education: MD from University of Calgary (1987) Residency/Training: Orthopaedic Surgery (University of Toronto, 1996) Fellowships: Hand Microsurgery (Wake Forest, 1999), Sports Medicine (Toronto Western Hospital, 1997) Research focuses on peripheral nerve regeneration, clinical outcomes, and upper extremity surgery innovations. He serves on advisory boards for AxoGen, Inc. and holds royalties from Skeletal Dynamics, LLC. Patient reviews highlight exceptional care with 4.9/5 satisfaction rating. Active in clinical practice and surgical education, he leads research programs addressing musculoskeletal trauma and reconstructive techniques.
Paul Stephen Cederna, M.D., is the Robert Oneal Collegiate Professor of Plastic Surgery and a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan. Since 1999, he has been a full-time academic surgeon and director of the Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, integrating clinical excellence with cutting-edge research in reconstructive surgery and neuroengineering. Education and Training: Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan College of Engineering M.D., University of Michigan Medical School Residency in General Surgery, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Fellowship in Microsurgery, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Plastic Surgery Fellowship, University of Michigan Health System Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, Muscle Mechanics Lab, University of Michigan Research Interests: Dr. Cederna’s research spans three core areas: muscle dysfunction following reinnervation, peripheral nerve reconstruction, and development of peripheral nerve interfaces for upper extremity prosthesis control. His lab pioneers regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces (RPNIs) to restore natural limb function and mitigate chronic postamputation pain. He integrates biomedical engineering with surgical innovation to advance neuroprosthetic control and sensory feedback systems. Clinical and Scientific Impact: He has authored over 180 peer-reviewed manuscripts, 24 book chapters, and delivered more than 600 presentations globally. His work has attracted over $24 million in direct research funding. He has mentored 60 students, 40 research fellows, and 15 postdoctoral fellows across biomedical engineering and physiology. Scientific Awards and Honors: Best Doctors in America America’s Top Plastic Surgeons America’s Most Compassionate Doctors Marquis Who’s Who in America America’s Top Surgeons Over 65 national research awards as first author or mentor Leadership and Service: Dr. Cederna has served as Chairman of the Plastic Surgery Research Council, President of the American Society for Peripheral Nerve, President of the Michigan Academy of Plastic Surgeons, and on the Board of Directors for the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He has also served as President of the Plastic Surgery Foundation. Laboratory and Teams: He directs the Neuromuscular Research Laboratory at the University of Michigan, leading a multidisciplinary team of engineers, surgeons, and neuroscientists. The lab is a hub for translational research in neuroprosthetics, muscle regeneration, and peripheral nerve repair.
Marius-Eugen Ciurea is a University Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova. He specializes in Plastic Surgery, Aesthetics, and Reconstructive Microsurgery, with additional expertise in General Surgery. Education: MD from University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova (1997-2003) Specializations: Plastic Surgery (Romanian College of Physicians), Subspecializations in General Surgery, Breast Surgery, and Reconstructive Microsurgery International Fellowships: San Carlos Hospital (Spain), San Donato Hospital (Italy), European Institute of Oncology (Italy), University Hospital of Amiens (France) His research focuses on reconstructive techniques, burn treatment, soft tissue tumors, breast surgery, and regenerative therapies like PRP, PRF, and mesenchymal stem cell therapy. He has extensive experience in aesthetic surgery (breast, abdomen, oculoplasty) and hand surgery. Marius-Eugen Ciurea has published 302 citations in ISI Web of Science (h-index 10) and 994 citations in BDI-indexed journals (h-index 16). He is a member of professional societies including the Association of Plastic Surgeons of Romania and European Burn Association.
Jeffrey Ecker is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery at the University of Western Australia (UWA Medical School). His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being. He holds an h-index of 64 with 2,600+ citations, reflecting impactful research in surgical and molecular medicine. Research interests focus on wrist surgery innovations, particularly triangular fibrocartilage pathologies, reconstructive plastic surgery techniques, and molecular characterization of central nervous system tumors. His work challenges diagnostic assumptions (e.g., hook test limitations) while advancing treatment methodologies like the Top-Hat Flap for nailbed reconstruction. Recent publications emphasize improving surgical outcomes through novel techniques and molecular insights into CNS tumors. Though no formal awards are listed, his 62+ citations for the 2020 DGONC study highlight significant neuro-oncology contributions. No grants or advisory roles are explicitly mentioned, though collaboration networks span international institutions. His research combines clinical surgery with cutting-edge molecular pathology, bridging surgical practice and tumor biology investigations.
Cristian Trombitas is an Assistant Professor and holds specialist medical certifications in Orthopedic Traumatology, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetic Surgery, and Reconstructive Microsurgery. His current affiliation is not explicitly stated in the provided text, though his roles suggest an academic or clinical appointment at a medical institution. His CV is currently under development and not fully available. Research interests include advanced surgical techniques, reconstructive procedures, and aesthetic medicine, with a focus on trauma-related orthopedic interventions and specialized plastic surgery applications. He likely contributes to clinical research and surgical innovation within these fields. No academic awards, grants, or advised students are listed in the provided information. His professional involvement may extend to clinical teams or surgical units, though specific labs or collaborative groups remain unspecified.
Aaron J. Ahearn is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Surgery and Associate Director of the Liver Transplantation program at Keck Medicine of USC. He holds an MD and PhD from the University of Maryland. His clinical expertise encompasses liver, kidney, and pancreas transplantation, including living-donor procedures, hepatobiliary surgery for cancer treatment, and biliary reconstruction. His research focuses on surgical outcomes, transplant immunology, and COVID-19 management in transplant recipients. Dr. Ahearn's publications demonstrate consistent focus on refining surgical techniques, managing transplant complications, and improving patient outcomes through innovative approaches to complex abdominal transplantation.
Nina Rachel Lightdale-Miric is an Associate Professor of Clinical Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Southern California (USC), affiliated with the Keck School of Medicine of USC. Her clinical and research focus centers on pediatric orthopaedic surgery, with a particular emphasis on trauma, congenital limb differences, and surgical outcomes. She is also associated with Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), as indicated by her institutional email address. Her research interests include optimizing surgical protocols for pediatric fractures (e.g., supracondylar humerus fractures, Monteggia fractures), improving care for children with neuromuscular conditions, and addressing complications such as cast-related injuries. She has pioneered group curricula for children with congenital upper limb differences and their caregivers, reflecting her commitment to multidisciplinary care and patient education. Her publications from 2020–2024 highlight trends in trauma management, congenital anomalies, and surgical innovations. Notable work includes studies on early morning trauma operating room efficiency, radial head instability in genetic disorders, and functional outcomes of brachial plexus injuries. While no formal awards are listed, her active research output underscores her contributions to pediatric orthopaedics. Dr. Lightdale-Miric’s work integrates clinical practice with research, addressing both technical and psychosocial aspects of pediatric musculoskeletal care. Her involvement in multicenter studies (e.g., the TOBI study on brachial plexus injuries) reflects collaborative approaches to advancing surgical standards. Though no student advisees are explicitly mentioned, her role in clinical research likely involves mentoring trainees in orthopaedic surgery.
Dr. Uttam Kumar Sinha is Professor and Medical Director of Head and Neck Surgery at Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, holding the Watt Family Endowed Chair for Head and Neck Cancers. He graduated with distinction from Calcutta University and completed research fellowships at House Ear Institute/USC, Mount Sinai Hospital (Microvascular/Reconstructive Surgery), and in France (Laryngology). His research spans head/neck cancer biology, nanotechnology-based diagnostics, dysphagia rehabilitation using neuromuscular stimulation, and surgical innovation. Dr. Sinha established international research collaborations and founded HNC Support International for patient survivorship. His publications demonstrate consistent focus on molecular oncology, surgical outcomes, and translational innovations. Honors include: Alpha Omega Alpha Outstanding Resident (1992) House Ear Institute Rupley Fellowship (1986) Calcutta University Gold Medal & Academic Scholarships
Milan Stevanovic, MD, PhD, is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC , where he directs the USC Joseph H. Boyes Hand Fellowship Program . A global authority in hand and upper extremity reconstruction , he specializes in microvascular surgery , brachial plexus injuries , and pediatric congenital deformities . His career spans roles as Chief of the Hand Program at the University of Belgrade and over 30 years of clinical innovation.
Roberto Travieso is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, where he serves as Surgical Director of the Gender-Affirming Care Program. His clinical expertise spans gender-affirming surgery (face, chest, genital procedures), microsurgery, and reconstructive surgery. Education: MD, Duke University School of Medicine Clinical Research Fellowship, Yale School of Medicine Integrated Residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Yale School of Medicine Microsurgery Fellowship, Keck Medicine of USC Complex Gender Affirmation Surgery Fellowship, Johns Hopkins University Dr. Travieso's research focuses on gender-affirming surgical techniques, craniofacial anomalies (e.g., sagittal synostosis, cleft palate, Treacher Collins syndrome), and surgical simulation. His publications highlight outcomes analysis in craniofacial surgery, disparities in cleft palate care, and neurocognitive impacts of craniofacial interventions. His clinical practice emphasizes personalized care plans for patients, with bilingual capabilities (English/Spanish) enhancing accessibility. He holds affiliations with Keck Hospital of USC, USC Norris Cancer Hospital, and USC Verdugo Hills Hospital.
Dr. Mark M. Urata is the Audrey Skirball-Kenis Chair and Chief of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, Head of Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and Director of Craniomaxillofacial Surgery at Cedars Sinai Medical Center. He holds dual board certifications in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Plastic Surgery. His expertise spans complex craniofacial anomalies, including craniosynostosis, syndromic reconstruction, and pediatric trauma. Dr. Urata completed 18 years of training after his undergraduate studies, earning degrees from USC’s School of Dentistry and Keck School of Medicine. His research focuses on TGF-β signaling in palatogenesis and computerized surgical planning. NIH-funded work at the Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology explores craniofacial development and surgical outcomes. His recent publications analyze surgical outcomes, craniosynostosis trends, and velopharyngeal insufficiency management. Awards include recognition by U.S. News & World Report and Best Doctors. He leads multidisciplinary teams at USC, emphasizing innovation in craniofacial care and translational research.
Alexander Wyckman is a Lecturer at the Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, affiliated with the Division of Surgery, Orthopedics and Oncology. His role focuses on advancing reconstructive surgical techniques and clinical outcomes research. Wyckman's research centers on reconstructive surgery , plastic surgery , and surgical oncology , with specialized interest in flap reconstruction methodologies. Key areas include: Flap survival and biomechanics in head/neck cancer Long-term outcomes of muscle flap procedures Patient-reported quality-of-life metrics His publications (2021-2025) demonstrate consistent focus on clinical efficacy and surgical innovation , utilizing cohort studies, systematic reviews, and patient-outcome tools like BREAST-Q to evaluate reconstructive techniques across diverse anatomical sites. No scientific awards, student advising activities, or grant engagements are documented in available materials.
John Gross serves as Vice Dean for Faculty and Clinical Affairs and Professor of Plastic Surgery at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, where he oversees critical administrative functions for faculty development and clinical operations. His clinical and academic expertise centers on Plastic Surgery, with comprehensive focus spanning reconstructive techniques for trauma and congenital defects, aesthetic enhancement procedures, microsurgical reconstruction, and specialized hand/craniofacial interventions. This multidisciplinary scope drives innovation in surgical outcomes and patient rehabilitation within the medical center. Dr. Gross actively shapes institutional policies through his leadership role while maintaining clinical practice and educational responsibilities in surgical training programs.
Hamed Yazdanshenas, MD is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Family Medicine at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science. His research focuses on orthopedic surgery, geriatrics, and public health, with an emphasis on surgical innovations, healthcare disparities, and elderly care. He has collaborated extensively with co-authors such as Dr. Shamie and Dr. Bazargan, contributing to advancements in spinal surgery, joint reconstruction, and pain management strategies for underserved populations. His work spans both clinical and epidemiological studies, addressing issues like musculoskeletal injuries in occupational settings and medication adherence in older adults. Key research areas include orthopedic techniques (e.g., cervical fusion, distal radius fracture treatments), geriatric pain management, and mobile health interventions for hypertension. He has also explored outcomes of spinal tumors and the impact of BMI on trauma care. His publications reflect a multidisciplinary approach, integrating surgery, public health, and medical informatics. Dr. Yazdanshenas has been involved in 30+ publications since 2011, with notable contributions in journals like J Craniovertebr Junction Spine and Cureus . Collaborations include studies on innovative surgical methods and healthcare equity for African American and Pacific Islander elderly populations.
Asif Ilyas, MD, MBA, FACS, serves as Associate Dean of Clinical Research at Drexel University College of Medicine and Adjunct Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and Pediatrics. He holds roles as Academic Vice Chair of Orthopaedic Surgery at Jefferson University and surgeon at the Rothman Institute. His clinical expertise spans hand surgery, upper extremity trauma, and orthopedic surgery for the Philadelphia Eagles and 76ers. Education: BS in Biology, Wilkes University (1997) MD, Drexel University College of Medicine (2001) MBA, Brown University (2020) Research Focus: His research addresses opioid crisis mitigation, medical cannabis efficacy in pain management, surgical pain management innovations, and hand/upper extremity trauma. He has authored/co-authored over 200 publications and 20 book chapters, with funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Appalachian Regional Commission, and the Rothman Opioid Foundation. Awards and Recognition: 2025: Orthopedic Surgery Research All-Star 2024: Distinguished Service Award, Pennsylvania Orthopaedic Society 2021: Pennsylvania Orthopaedic Society Best Paper Award 2020: Orthopedics Blue Ribbon Awards Leadership and Service: President of the Rothman Opioid Foundation, past president of the Pennsylvania Orthopaedic Society, and editorial board member of Journal of Hand & Microsurgery . He mentors Drexel medical students and emphasizes clinical research expansion across regional campuses. Clinical Affiliations: Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Bryn Mawr Hospital.
