Uma Phatak

Uma Phatak, MD, MS, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). She serves as the Medical Director of GI Surgery and the Section Chief of Colorectal Surgery. Her academic background includes an MD from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (2009) and an MS, though the institution for the latter is unspecified.

Her research focuses on colorectal surgery, surgical site infections, quality improvement initiatives, and health disparities affecting African American and Hispanic populations. She investigates surgical outcomes, oncological advancements, and innovations in colorectal care.

Recent publications highlight her work on ketamine’s role in postoperative outcomes, bowel obstruction diagnosis, ERAS protocols, rectal cancer surgery, and immunological tumor mechanisms. Her research bridges clinical practice and scientific inquiry to improve patient care.

No scientific awards are explicitly mentioned in the profile. Grants and advising details are not provided here, though her leadership roles suggest active involvement in collaborative projects. No specific lab or team affiliations are noted.