Message from the Section Chief of General Thoracic Surgery

Message from the Section Chief of General Thoracic Surgery 

The primary objective of our Thoracic Surgery and Oncology Program is to deliver empathetic, cutting-edge, and multidisciplinary care to individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, mesothelioma, and related thoracic malignancies.

Receiving a lung cancer diagnosis is an immensely challenging experience. Beyond grappling with the disease itself, patients often bear the weight of societal stigmas associated with such diagnoses. At UCSF, our unwavering focus centers on providing treatment, fostering hope, and refraining from assigning blame to those affected.

We take immense pride in our role as a regional, national, and international referral hub for lung cancer cases. Our surgical team is renowned for their proactive approach in appropriate scenarios. Additionally, our institution is a prominent West Coast center for thoracic surgery, boasting the highest case volume. Notably, our post-operative mortality rates stand as some of the lowest across the spectrum.

UCSF Medical Center has earned the top-tier "high performance" rating in lung cancer surgery according to the most recent U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals survey, which assessed data from over 4,500 hospitals.

Our expertise extends to the realm of minimally invasive thoracic surgery, resulting in reduced hospital stays, diminished post-operative discomfort, and quicker resumption of daily activities. For those necessitating post-surgery chemotherapy, this translates to expedited treatment initiation and enhanced tolerance for higher dosages.

Under the leadership of Dr. Matthew A. Gubens, a distinguished and respected thoracic oncologist in the region, our medical oncology group thrives. Collaborating specialists, encompassing radiation oncology, pulmonology, pathology, and imaging, are equally devoted and proficient. They collectively possess specialized prowess in treating lung cancer and related thoracic malignancies.

Aligned with our mission, our researchers share a resolute commitment to combating lung cancer. Our laboratory scientists relentlessly pursue novel therapies and potential cures. Concurrently, our clinical investigators present an extensive array of clinical trials, enabling patients to access the latest treatment modalities.

Warm regards,
Johannes Kratz, MD