Engineering Mindset
A fascination with mechanics and complex systems led to a degree in bioengineering at Lehigh University, studying strength of materials, fluid dynamics, and biomechanical systems. That hands-on problem-solving approach now informs every aspect of surgical planning and decision-making at the operating table and at the bedside, and proves especially useful when managing perioperative hemodynamics, cardiogenic shock, and mechanical circulatory support.
Clinical Focus
The ideal practice environment features strong continuity of care and close working relationships with cardiologists and referring physicians. All areas of adult cardiac surgery hold interest, with a particular emphasis on valve repair, and the right opportunity is one that can be shaped around the needs of the group and the community it serves.
Surgical Practice
General surgery residency at St. Luke's University Health Network provided a strong foundation in vascular and thoracic surgery. An early cardiac surgery rotation made clear that the subspecialty represented the ideal intersection of mechanical reasoning and patient care. From that point on, the remainder of residency was geared towards preparing for the world of cardiac surgery.
Extracurricular
A hands-on ethos extends outside the hospital, from competing in Formula SAE in college to building a quarter-mile drag car during medical school around a 1976 Monte Carlo chassis powered by a naturally aspirated 6.0L LQ4 iron-block V8 (good for an 11.50-second quarter mile at 115 mph). Outside of work, interests include reading, squash & racquetball, cooking, gardening (especially exotic tropicals), and snowboarding.
