David M. Gourlay

Dr. David M. Gourlay is a Professor and Chief of the Division of Pediatric Surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin, where he also serves as Medical Director of Trauma at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. With over 15 years of academic experience, he has established himself as a leader in pediatric surgery and trauma care.

Dr. Gourlay's research primarily focuses on pediatric trauma systems, venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in children, and the role of intestinal alkaline phosphatase in necrotizing enterocolitis. His work has been supported by multiple NIH grants totaling over $3 million in direct funding. He has published 86 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals with consistent annual productivity.

His recent publications demonstrate expertise across several key areas: trauma activation criteria, venous thromboembolism prophylaxis, appendectomy outcomes, and congenital anomaly management. Analysis of his 15 most recent articles shows a strong emphasis on improving pediatric trauma systems, optimizing surgical outcomes, and understanding the pathophysiology of necrotizing enterocolitis.

• Castle Connolly Top Doctors in America Award (2015)
• Milwaukee's Business Journal Top 40 Under 40 Award (2011)
• American Red Cross Brave Hearts Award (2011)
• T. Michael Bolger Standing Ovation Award (2014)
• Army Commendation Medal for service in Kosovo

As Medical Director of Trauma since 2008, Dr. Gourlay has led significant quality improvement initiatives that have transformed pediatric trauma care in Wisconsin. His research laboratory, which he directed from 2006-2017, produced foundational work on intestinal alkaline phosphatase and necrotizing enterocolitis. He currently serves as Faculty Partner for the Injury Research Center and holds leadership positions on multiple state and national trauma committees.

Dr. Gourlay maintains an active surgical practice while balancing substantial research and administrative responsibilities. His unique perspective as both a pediatric surgeon and military officer (currently Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army Reserve with deployments to Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan) informs his approach to trauma systems development and emergency surgical care.