News & Media Archive 2024
Media Highlight
July 15, 2024
UCLA Health recognized among top hospitals nationally – UCLA Health has once again been named a top performer in U.S. News & World Report's annual review of hospital patient care. Notably, UCLA Health's surgical services achieved top ten rankings nationally in several categories: Lung Surgery (#3), GI Surgery (#4), and Cancer (#9). For more details on these achievements, visit the .
More Updates
January 30, 2025
UCLA faculty honored with Presidential Early Career Awards – Dr. Justine Lee, Bernard G. Sarnat Professor of Craniofacial Biology and associate chief of plastic surgery at UCLA Health, received the prestigious Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), the highest honor for early-career researchers. The award recognizes innovation and leadership in science and technology. .
January 24, 2025
Study reveals disparities in heart transplant outcomes among Medicaid patients – Dr. Peyman Benharash, cardiothoracic surgeon at UCLA Health, co-authored a UCLA-led study revealing that Medicaid-insured heart transplant patients face a higher risk of developing cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV), a condition that affects long-term survival. Published in The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, the study highlights how treatment at high-volume transplant centers can mitigate these risks, offering patients more consistent follow-up care and access to essential medications. Learn more at UCLA Health Newsroom.
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January 17, 2025
Cardiac surgery consortium improves outcomes and reduces costs – Dr. Richard J. Shemin, chief of cardiac surgery at UCLA Health, founded the University of California Cardiac Surgery Consortium (UCCSC) to enhance patient care across UC’s five health centers. By sharing data and best practices, the consortium has saved 132 bed days and improved financial margins by $15 million. Learn more at .
January 16, 2025
Multidisciplinary approach enhances PAD treatment – Dr. Vincent Rowe, chief of vascular and endovascular surgery at UCLA Health, leads a comprehensive team of specialists to treat complex peripheral artery disease (PAD) cases and prevent amputations. By integrating vascular and plastic surgery, wound care, podiatry, and hyperbaric medicine, UCLA Health has successfully preserved limbs and improved patient outcomes. Discover more at .
November 25, 2024
Dr. Catherine Juillard receives ACS/Pfizer Academic Global Surgeon Award - Dr. Catherine Juillard, professor of surgery and trauma surgeon at UCLA Health, has been named the recipient of the 2024 American College of Surgeons/Pfizer Academic Global Surgeon Award. Her global health initiatives have improved access to quality surgical care in low-resource settings, providing education, training, and resources that transform communities and inspire future surgeons. Learn more at .
November 25, 2024
Electrical nerve stimulation eases long COVID pain and fatigue – Dr. Bijan Najafi, research director of the Center for Advanced Surgical & Interventional Technology (CASIT) at UCLA Health, co-led a UCLA Health and Baylor College of Medicine study suggesting that a wearable TENS device can ease pain, fatigue, and mobility issues associated with long COVID. Dr. Najafi noted its potential for treating symptoms of other chronic conditions, though further research is needed. For more information, visit the . Additional Coverage: , , , , , & .
November 17, 2024
Why regular breast cancer screenings matter - Dr. Jennifer Baker, breast surgical oncologist at UCLA Health, highlights the critical role of regular breast cancer screenings, even for those who feel perfectly healthy. Don’t miss her insightful commentary on .
November 7, 2024
Breast cancer care Q&A – Dr. Mediget Teshome, chief of breast surgery at UCLA Health, sat down with the Daily Bruin to discuss early detection, innovative therapies, and health equity in breast cancer care. She highlighted UCLA's support services and the importance of annual mammograms starting at age 40. For the full interview, visit the .
November 7, 2024
Understanding pancreatic cancer symptoms can save lives – Dr. Timothy Donahue, chief of surgical oncology at UCLA Health, highlighted common misconceptions about pancreatic cancer in an interview with Health. For more insights, visit .
October 31, 2024
Understanding lung cancer: prevention, diagnosis, and treatment – Dr. Sha'Shonda Revels, thoracic surgeon at UCLA Health, participated in a discussion covering lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and potential cures. For more information, visit the .
October 21, 2024
UCLA Health’s comprehensive treatment combats aggressive breast cancer – Dr. Carlie Thompson, UCLA Health breast surgical oncologist, led a multifaceted treatment plan for Melanie Shatner Gretsch, whose aggressive breast cancer had spread to lymph nodes in her chest. Despite the challenges, Dr. Thompson shared that Gretsch’s cancer remained potentially curable. Learn more at the .
October 19, 2024
Rebuilding after a life-altering dog attack – Dr. Nicholas Do, UCLA Health plastic surgeon, performed five complex reconstructive surgeries to restore the face of Brooklinn Khoury, a 20-year-old skateboarder and model, after a pit bull attack left her without an upper lip. Using innovative techniques, Dr. Do helped Khoury regain her confidence over a two-year journey. Learn more at .
October 12, 2024
Breast cancer awareness: Risk factors, screening, and new treatments – Dr. Carlie Thompson, breast surgical oncologist and assistant professor of surgery at UCLA Health, was recently featured on Spectrum News TV in a special segment for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the interview, she discusses key risk factors, emphasizes the importance of regular screenings, and highlights the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment. You can watch her segment starting at the 11:45 mark. Learn more at .
October 8, 2024
Your breast cancer questions answered – Dr. Mediget Teshome, chief of breast surgery at UCLA Health, addressed common questions and prevention measures in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. October is an important reminder about the impact of breast cancer in our community and personal lives. Learn more at the .
October 8, 2024
Study reveals disparities in colorectal cancer surgery outcomes for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) – Dr. Hanjoo Lee, assistant professor of surgery at UCLA Health, and his colleagues conducted a study highlighting significant disparities in outcomes for patients with IDD undergoing colorectal cancer surgery. For more details, visit the .
October 8, 2024
Why Black women face higher mortality rates from metastatic breast cancer & what needs to change – Dr. Mediget Teshome, chief of breast surgery at UCLA Health, provided expert commentary on the disparities in mortality rates among Black women with metastatic breast cancer and the necessary changes to address this issue. Learn more at .
October 2, 2024
UCLA researchers develop new risk scoring system to account for the role of chronic illness in post-surgery mortality – Dr. Peyman Benharash, director of the Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB) and a cardiac surgeon at UCLA Health, and Dr. Tara Russell, assistant professor-in-residence at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine and colon and rectal surgeon, are study authors. Learn more at the .
September 30, 2024
Heart transplant patients from socioeconomically deprived areas face higher risk – Dr. Peyman Benharash, director of the Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB) and a cardiac surgeon at UCLA Health, was the senior author of a study showing that heart transplant patients from socioeconomically deprived areas face higher risks for complications and earlier death. This disparity persisted even at top hospitals and may stem from limited access to follow-up care. Learn more at the .
September 16, 2024
Your mammogram results revealed you have dense breasts: now what? – Dr. Mediget Teshome, chief of breast surgery and director of breast health at UCLA Health, provides expert commentary on the implications of dense breast tissue and the next steps you should take. Learn more at .
September 6, 2024
Early parathyroidectomy shows no advantage for preventing depression – Dr. Michael Yeh, endocrine surgeon and founder of the Endocrine Surgery Program at UCLA Health, offers commentary on a study which found that early parathyroidectomy does not significantly reduce depression rates compared to nonoperative management in PHPT patients. Dr. Yeh highlights that while the study shows no clear benefit for preventing depression, there may be subtler neurocognitive effects of the surgery. Read his insights on .
August 29, 2024
Dr. Richard Shemin’s career shaped by adversity – Dr. Richard J. Shemin, The Robert and Kelly Day chair in cardiothoracic surgery and chief of the cardiac surgery at UCLA Health, reflects on how his father’s sudden death inspired his distinguished career. Recently awarded the American Heart Association’s Centennial Legacy Award, Dr. Shemin remains dedicated to advancing cardiovascular care at UCLA. Learn more about his journey at the .
August 21, 2024
Philanthropist receives life-saving heart surgery at UCLA Health - Dr. Richard Shemin, The Robert and Kelly Day Chair in cardiothoracic surgery and chief of cardiac surgery at UCLA Health, provided critical care to Lisa Gluck, a prominent philanthropist, after she experienced persistent chest pressure in January 2023. Although initially misdiagnosed as anxiety, Dr. Shemin accurately identified the underlying cause: a life-threatening congenital heart condition known as an anomalous coronary artery. He successfully performed open-heart surgery in May 2023. To learn more about Lisa's recovery, visit the .
August 19, 2024
UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center achieves national accreditation – The center has been nationally accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. Dr. Timothy Donahue, chief of surgical oncology, medical director of cancer services, and the Garry Shandling professor of surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, emphasized the center's dedication to comprehensive patient care. "Our goal is to ensure that every patient receives not only the best possible clinical care but also the emotional and supportive care they need," he stated. Learn more at the .
August 17, 2024
Breast cancer screening guidelines: Insights from UCLA Health expert – Dr. Mediget Teshome, chief of breast surgery and director of breast health at the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, provides expert commentary on when to start screening for breast cancer. Tune in for her detailed analysis on .
July 25, 2024
Pesticides may present a cancer risk comparable to that of smoking – Dr. Avital Harari, endocrine surgeon at UCLA Health, Health Sciences associate clinical professor in the Department of Surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, and member of the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, shares expert advice on reducing your exposure. .
July 22, 2024
Researchers awarded $4 million to advance pancreatic cancer immunotherapy – Dr. Timothy Donahue, chief of surgical oncology and professor of surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, along with two other UCLA investigators, earned a $4 million grant from the National Cancer Institute. Their research aims to advance immune-based therapies to improve treatments and outcomes for individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, one of the most aggressive and deadly forms of cancer. Discover more at the .
July 17, 2024
Dr. Ronald Busuttil wins Medawar Prize from Transplantation Society – Dr. Ronald Busuttil, distinguished professor of surgery emeritus at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, has been named a recipient of the 2024 Medawar Prize by The Transplantation Society. Recognized for his pioneering work in liver transplantation, preservation, and organ donor management, Busuttil's contributions have significantly expanded the donor organ pool and improved patient outcomes. Learn more at the
July 13, 2024
Advancements in robotic surgery at UCLA Health – Dr. Mark Girgis, surgical oncologist, director of robotic surgery, and assistant professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, emphasizes the benefits of robotics and artificial intelligence in surgery. These technological advancements enhance precision and mitigate complications, leading to improved surgical outcomes. Learn more about Dr. Girgis's insights in the recent .
June 25, 2024
Heart transplant recipient conquers 545-mile AIDS/LifeCycle Ride – Dr. Abbas Ardehali, director of the Heart, Lung, and Heart-Lung Transplant Programs at UCLA Health, performed a life-saving heart transplant on Thomas Johansen, allowing him to complete the grueling 545-mile ride down the California coast. After a swift recovery, Johansen is back to an active life and mentors other transplant patients. Follow his journey at the .
June 21, 2024
Marathon runner triumphs over esophageal cancer – Dr. Jane Yanagawa, surgical director of the Robert G. Kardashian Center for Esophageal Health, and Dr. Mark Girgis, surgical oncologist, perform a life-saving esophagectomy on Jill Weisman, a dedicated marathoner and retired UCLA Health physical therapist. Returning to her active lifestyle, Jill highlights the crucial role of fitness and support during her treatment. Discover her inspiring journey at the .
June 13, 2024
UCLA Health and CHOC collaborate on new pediatric congenital heart care program – UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital and Children's Hospital Orange County announce the formation of a joint program to offer comprehensive care at two locations, enhancing accessibility and leveraging clinical strengths and technology. Learn more at the .
June 3, 2024
New Hepatic Artery Pump Program at UCLA offers hope for metastatic colon cancer - Dr. Vatche Agopian, professor of surgery and director of the Dumont-UCLA Liver Cancer Center, highlights an innovative procedure for metastatic colon cancer that offers hope for extended survival and potential curative therapy. Learn more at the .
May 30, 2024
UCLA scientists secure $17.4M in CIRM grants to advance stem-cell therapies - Dr. Gerald Lipshutz, professor of surgery and molecular and medical pharmacology, has secured a $5.1 million translational research award to develop a leading-edge gene therapy for creatine deficiency disorder guanidinoacetate methyltransferase deficiency. More details can be found at the .
May 13, 2024
KFI AM 640's Mo Kelly explores innovations in breast health and organ donations with UCLA health experts - Dr. Mediget Teshome, chief of breast surgery, discusses the latest in breast health and surgery, while Dr. Abbas Ardehali, professor of surgery, explores groundbreaking advances in organ donations. Listen to the full conversations on KFI AM: and .
May 2, 2024
40th anniversary of heart transplantation at UCLA – Dr. Abbas Ardehali, professor of surgery and medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, director of the UCLA Heart, Lung and Heart-Lung Transplant Programs, William E. Conner Chair in Cardiothoracic Transplantation, interviews with .
April 29, 2024
AI use grows at hospitals – Dr. Mark Girgis, assistant professor of surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Director of Robotic Surgery, provides expert commentary to .
April 23, 2024
Celebrating five years of excellence: UCLA Robert G. Kardashian Center for Esophageal Health – Dr. Jane Yanagawa, associate professor of thoracic surgery and surgical director of the center, discussed the team’s collective advances in esophageal health during the event. Learn more at the .
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April 22, 2024
UCLA Health holds ‘Demystifying Cancer’ event at COC – Dr. Gregory Senofsky, surgical oncology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, was a panel member at the Demystifying Cancer Event hosted in Santa Clarita. Learn more at .
April 18, 2024
How Medicare reimbursement trends may affect breast surgeries – Dr. Mediget Teshome, chief of breast surgery and director of breast health at UCLA Health, provides expert commentary to .
April 17, 2024
Baby Levi’s parents knew something was wrong, so a UCLA Health team jumped in to solve the mystery – Dr. Ming-Sing Si, a congenital cardiac surgeon at UCLA Health, performed surgery to address the narrowing of Levi’s aorta. Learn more at the .
April 11, 2024
Black women with breast cancer are less likely than white women to undergo preventative removal of the unaffected breast - The study was led by Amulya Vadlakonda, a third-year medical student at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, and other Department of Surgery investigators including Dr. Carlie Thompson, assistant professor of surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Dr. Peyman Benharash, associate professor-in-residence of surgery and bioengineering at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Learn more at the .
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April 5, 2024
AACR: Preliminary study finds immunotherapy combination before surgery improves outcomes for patients with pancreatic cancer - Dr. Timothy Donahue, chief of surgical oncology and professor of surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, director of the UCLA Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases and senior author of the study, provides expert commentary on a pilot study led by UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. The study investigators suggest that for people with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer, administrating an immunotherapy drug in combination with chemotherapy before surgery is safe and may improve long-term outcomes. Learn more at the .
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April 4, 2024
Olivia was born with only half her heart functioning - 4 years later, she's thriving - Dr.Glen Van Arsdell, chief of congenital cardiovascular surgery at UCLA Health, performed a transplant on four-year-old Olivia Lopez. The lengthy procedure was even more complex than usual given the location of her heart on the right side of her chest. Learn more at the .
March 26, 2024
Volleyball player takes on his toughest opponent: a very rare form of cancer – Dr. Joseph Crompton, surgeon-scientist at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, and Dr. Mark Girgis, assistant professor of surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Director of Robotic Surgery, perform major abdominal surgery on Sina Sinbari. Learn more at the .
March 4, 2024
Competitive athlete Hilary Witbrodt's greatest victory? Her win over colorectal cancer - Dr. Kevork Kazanjian, clinical professor of surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, performs surgery for Hilary Witbrodt. Hear Hilary Witbrodt's story at the .
March 2024
TED Talk on Transplantation - Dr. Abbas Ardehali, professor of surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and director, UCLA Heart, Lung, and Heart-Lung Transplant programs, investigates how to keep human hearts and lungs alive outside the body before they are transplanted. Listen to Dr. Ardehali's talk at .
March 2024
CORELAB receives Cultural North Star Award - The CORELAB at the Division of Cardiac Surgery at UCLA has received the Cultural North Star Award, which recognizes the collaborative teamwork that serves as the cornerstone of the environment at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA as well as the mission of the . Learn more .
February 29, 2024
UCLA researchers uncover dual role of GAN gene in neurological disorder, head and neck cancer - Dr. Eri Srivatsan, a professor of surgery at the Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System (VA GLAHS) Medical Center, the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, and member of the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, leads a study on a specific genetic variant (GAN gene exon 8 SNP T allele) of the GAN gene and its impact on the production of certain proteins that make cancer cells more likely to spread and become resistant to treatment. Learn more at .
February 14, 2024
Cerritos family grateful for double-lung transplant – Dr. Abbas Ardehali, cardiac surgeon, director of the UCLA Heart, Lung and Heart-Lung Transplant Programs, William E. Conner Chair in Cardiothoracic Transplantation, and professor of surgery and medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Health, helped perform surgery on Jermell Robinson, who received an organ transplant through the UCLA Health Lung Transplant Program. Learn more at .
February 7, 2024
Surgeons are humanizing the esophagectomy – Dr. Haley Tupper, general surgery resident at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Health, provides expert commentary to the .
February 6, 2024
The Dr. Now Diet: pros, cons and how to follow it – Dr. Erik P. Dutson, surgical director of the Center for Obesity and Metabolic Health (COMET) at UCLA Health, provides expert commentary to
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January 25, 2024
#ASC2024: Ethnicity as survival predictor for gastric cancer, early liver retransplantation, risk factors for chemical restraint use among adult trauma patients and more - UCLA Health surgeon-scientists present the latest academic research at the 19th Annual Academic Surgical Congress Feb. 6 to 8 in Washington, D.C. Learn more at the .
January 17, 2024
Breast surgical oncologist Dr. Mediget Teshome named chief of breast surgery at UCLA Health - Dr. Mediget Teshome has been appointed to breast surgical oncology leadership across UCLA Health, including the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. Teshome is dedicated to advancing the care of individuals with breast cancer and improving equity in health care and society. Learn more at the .
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January 9, 2024
Hospitalizations for scooter injuries nearly tripled in the U.S. between 2016 and 2020 - Dr. Peyman Benharash, cardiac surgeon at UCLA Health, is a study author, on scooter injuries tripling from 2016-2020,with a concurrent increase in severe injuries requiring orthopedic and plastic surgery over the same period. Learn more on the .