Benjamin Zendejas-Mummert

Dr. Benjamin Zendejas-Mummert serves as Assistant Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School and holds dual leadership roles as Surgical Director of the Esophageal and Airway Treatment (EAT) Center and Co-Surgical Director of the Vascular Ring Program at Boston Children's Hospital. His clinical expertise centers on complex pediatric aerodigestive conditions, with research bridging surgical innovation and education reform.

His educational pathway includes:

• Medical School: Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara, Mexico (2009)
• Graduate School: Mayo School of Graduate Medical Education, Rochester, MN (2011) - MSc in Clinical and Translational Sciences
• Internship: Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (2012)
• Residency: Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (2016)
• Fellowship: Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA (2018)

Dr. Zendejas-Mummert's research revolutionizes pediatric aerodigestive care through three interconnected pillars: development of minimally invasive techniques like thoracoscopic Foker process alternatives that reduce sedation requirements; creation of predictive tools including esophageal perfusion assessment systems and anastomotic scoring algorithms; and implementation of intraoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring to prevent vocal fold impairment. His surgical education work with SIMPL establishes frameworks for measuring trainee autonomy and transitioning to competency-based assessment.

Analysis of his 100+ publications reveals consistent thematic evolution toward technology-enhanced solutions for esophageal atresia management and aerodigestive reconstruction, with recent emphasis on predictive modeling, non-invasive screening modalities, and standardized outcome metrics across multidisciplinary care teams.

His scientific recognition includes:

• Mayo Brothers Distinguished Fellowship Award
• Jon van Heerden Award for Meticulous Patient Care
• Karee K Nygaard Travel Award for Outstanding Surgical Research Achievement

As an educator, Dr. Zendejas-Mummert directs SIMPL implementation for pediatric surgery trainee assessment, generating predictive autonomy metrics that inform competency-based progression. His leadership in national committees including the American Pediatric Surgical Association drives standardization of aerodigestive care protocols. The EAT Center and Vascular Ring Program he co-leads integrate surgical, gastroenterological, and pulmonological expertise to optimize outcomes for children with complex airway and esophageal disorders through personalized, evidence-based care pathways.