Biography

I grew up in Palm Desert, California, and spent most of my time in the pool trying to stay cool. I was always interested in becoming a physician, as it was a role where I could be on my feet, help others, and experience continual learning and development. I earned my bachelor's degree in human biology from Stanford University and attended medical school at Hahnemann University Medical College of Pennsylvania on a scholarship from the United States Navy. After graduation, I completed a surgical internship at Naval Medical Center San Diego. I spent 2 years with the 1st Marine Division, including a deployment with the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, as their Battalion Surgeon during the invasion of Iraq. During this time, I acquired a wealth of experience in general orthopedics, trauma surgery, and fracture repair.

I then completed an orthopedic surgery residency at Naval Medical Center in San Diego, followed by a fellowship in hand and microvascular surgery at the Philadelphia Hand Center. After my fellowship concluded, I returned to Naval Medical Center as a staff surgeon and was deployed to Afghanistan for 7 months. It was an honor to care for our sailors, soldiers, and Marines during this time. In 2014, I made the transition away from active military service and joined our incredible team at Kaiser Permanente San Diego.

I have served in several key leadership roles in the department and have been a recipient of the Our KP Leadership Award and the SCPMG San Diego Innovation Award for introducing virtual reality into minor procedures to reduce anxiety. I am passionate about learning and have published over 15 scientific research articles and several book chapters, presented at national and international conferences, and was one of several orthopedic surgeons selected in 2014 to learn from academic institutions in Japan as part of the Japanese Orthopedic Association Traveling Fellowship. I am also a fellow in the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery and a participating member of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand and the American Association for Hand Surgery.

About my practice

My practice primarily involves surgery of the hands, wrists, forearms, and elbows. I love the intricacy of hand surgery in everything from the fairly common conditions, such as carpal tunnel and trigger finger, to the latest advances in peripheral nerve surgery, arthroscopic surgery, and reconstructive surgery. I am passionate about leveraging technology to improve care delivery and better meet the needs of our changing population.

I strongly believe that the best care is honest, well-informed, efficient, and individualized to each member. I will take the time to describe the pros and cons of each treatment option and accurately set expectations. Our department prides itself on providing high-quality care based on evidence and current research, and we have a strong care team of clinic staff, schedulers, operating room staff, and therapists to oversee and coordinate your care from the beginning through recovery. Our goal is that you leave us feeling your best!

How I thrive

I thrive with every personal interaction I have with my family, colleagues, and members each day. I love the water and regularly enjoy an early morning surf or a swim with my local master's program. I also find mind and body relaxation from building and shaping hollow wooden surfboards.

In the fall, you can find my eyes glued to Stanford football games. However, my favorite time is the time I spend with my wife and 2 children learning new things, experiencing new activities, and spending quality time with one another. They help me recharge so I can be the best I can be for members.