Diana L. Diesen

Diana L. Diesen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center and serves on the Pediatric General Surgery faculty at Children’s Health in Dallas and Plano, Texas. She specializes in treating children with operable surgical conditions, combining clinical expertise with a strong focus on medical education. Dr. Diesen oversees the UT Southwestern Pediatric Surgery Fellowship Program and directs medical student training at her clinical sites.

She completed her medical degree at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, followed by a surgery residency at Duke University Medical Center and a pediatric surgery fellowship at Children’s Health. Board-certified in general and pediatric surgery, she holds advanced certifications in pediatric critical care, trauma management, and laparoscopic techniques.

Her research focuses on outcomes in pediatric thyroid surgery and empyema treatment, with contributions to 30+ journal articles and 11 book chapters. She leads initiatives in clinical trials (NEST and DREAMS) and actively participates in professional organizations including the American Pediatric Surgical Association and Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons.

Dr. Diesen’s professional service includes roles in surgical education and clinical innovation, balancing clinical practice, research, and mentorship across multiple institutions.