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.
Evan Michael Graboyes, MD, MPH, is a Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) with joint appointments in the College of Medicine's Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery and Department of Public Health Sciences. He serves as Director of Survivorship and Cancer Outcomes Research (SCOR) at the NCI-designated Hollings Cancer Center and is a member of the Cancer Control Program. Education includes: AB in Philosophy and Public Policy from Princeton University (2007) MD from Washington University School of Medicine (2011) Otolaryngology Residency at Washington University (2016) Head and Neck Oncologic Surgery Fellowship at MUSC (2017) MPH in Health Behavior and Health Promotion from MUSC (2020) Dr. Graboyes' research focuses on multilevel interventions to improve timeliness, equity, and quality of cancer care delivery. His work addresses health disparities in head and neck oncology, technology-enhanced care for rural patients, body image distress in cancer survivors, and healthcare delivery systems. He leads NIH-funded trials investigating cognitive behavioral therapies and navigation-based interventions to enhance cancer outcomes. His publications demonstrate interdisciplinary research spanning oncology, health services, behavioral interventions, and health equity. Recent work emphasizes reducing treatment delays, addressing social determinants of health, developing digital health interventions, and improving survivorship care through telemedicine approaches. Dr. Graboyes maintains an active clinical practice as a head and neck surgical oncologist and microvascular reconstructive surgeon. He leads multiple NIH/NCI grants investigating cancer care delivery and survivorship. His research lab focuses on supportive care interventions and equity-focused health services. Nationally, he chairs the American Head and Neck Society's Value & Quality of Care Committee, co-chairs NRG Oncology's Health Disparities Committee, serves on NCI Task Forces, and sits on the editorial board of JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery.
Prof. Dr. Dr. med. Evangelos Sarantopoulos is an Adjunct Professor of Clinical and Surgical Anatomy and Medical Ethics at Dresden International University. He holds extensive academic appointments across Europe, including roles at Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, TUM Graduate School München, and the University of Edinburgh. His expertise spans medical law, ethics, breast surgery, and surgical education. He has conducted groundbreaking research on topics such as patient safety in cross-border cosmetic procedures, quality of life post-breast reconstruction, and ethical dilemmas in transplantation. Education: Master of Surgery (Oncoplastic Breast Surgery), University of East Anglia (2023) LLM in Medical Law and Ethics, University of Edinburgh (2022) PhD in Medical Sciences (Quality of Life in Breast Surgery), University of Nicosia (2021) MPH (Public Health), University of Nicosia (2021) MMEdEd (Medical Education), University of South Wales (2020) MA in Medical Ethics, Johannes Gutenberg Universität Mainz (2017) MBA in Health Economics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2017) Dr. med. (Medicine), Technical University of Munich & National & Kapodistrian University of Athens (2015) MSc in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Queen Mary University of London (2014) Research Focus: Sarantopoulos bridges clinical practice with ethical and legal dimensions of healthcare. His work on breast surgery outcomes, regulatory frameworks for cosmetic procedures, and surgical training methodologies has influenced policy and clinical practice. He advocates for standardized training protocols to reduce complications in aesthetic surgeries performed by non-specialists. Academic Contributions: His publications span medical ethics, surgery, and public health, emphasizing patient-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration. Notable studies include comparisons of breast reconstruction techniques and analyses of DGS certification impacts on breast units. He also contributes to sports medicine through performance diagnostics for elite athletes in cycling, skiing, and team sports.
Thomas P. Lehman is a Professor and Vice Chair in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. He specializes in Hand and Microvascular Surgery, with a Certificate of Added Qualification in Surgery of the Hand since 2005. Dr. Lehman holds dual credentials as a medical doctor and licensed physical therapist, reflecting his background in both clinical practice and rehabilitation. Education: He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Oklahoma College of Allied Health (1992), followed by a medical degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine (1996). He completed an Orthopedic Surgery Residency (2001) and a Hand and Microsurgery Fellowship (2002) at the University of Oklahoma and University of New Mexico, respectively. Roles: Medical Director of Hand Trauma Services at OU Medical Center and Medical Director of the OU Physicians Adult Orthopedic Surgery Clinic. He also leads the annual Doctors Demistify Forearm and Hand Anatomy Seminar as Oklahoma's host, emphasizing anatomical education in clinical practice. Awards: Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Active member of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.
Dr. Andrew Zhang is a Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, leading the Reconstructive Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery team at Parkland Memorial Hospital. He also serves as Residency Program Director for UTSW's Plastic Surgery residency program, overseeing one of the nation's top training programs. After graduating Summa Cum Laude from Claremont McKenna College and completing medical school at Stanford University, he specialized in Plastic Surgery with a focus on hand surgery and microsurgery. His clinical expertise spans reconstructive microsurgery, complex hand trauma, and breast reconstruction, with a particular focus on improving outcomes for socioeconomically disadvantaged patients. Dr. Zhang's research interests include flexor tendon repair, Dupuytren's disease pathophysiology, and surgical education innovation. Notable contributions include pioneering techniques in pollicization for thumb amputations and advancing standardized feedback systems for surgical training. He has published extensively in top journals like Science and Nature, with over 30 peer-reviewed articles since 2003. His leadership roles include directing residency education programs emphasizing resident autonomy while maintaining patient safety standards. Current initiatives focus on reducing disparities in breast reconstruction access and optimizing surgical training methodologies through objective outcome metrics. Professional affiliations include prominent roles in academic surgery organizations, though specific awards/honors were not explicitly listed in the provided texts.
