Surgical Oncology

OR Surgical Oncology

The Division of Surgical Oncology offers a state-of-the-art approach to cancer therapy that is centered around multi-disciplinary tumor boards and integrated practice unit clinics. We also prioritize clinical / translational research and applied basic laboratory investigations related to the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of malignant solid tumors.  Physician investigators within the division have special interest in pancreatic, breast, colon, and gastric cancers, as well as sarcoma, melanoma, and pseudomyxoma peritonei.

The program is based at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center for inpatient care and the 200 Medical Plaza for outpatient care. Additional locations of service include the UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center and Wadsworth Veterans Administration Medical Centers. Members of the Division of Surgical Oncology have developed pioneering programs that have significantly improved the care of patients with solid tumors through clinical / translational research and innovative surgical approaches. UCLA Health is one of "60 hospitals and health systems with great oncology programs." Read more >

The primary goal of the Surgical Oncology program is to provide quality state of the art care for its patients. This includes surgical oncology consultation with the staff of the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and its affiliated hospitals, and multidisciplinary treatment planning in the context of disease specific programs.

Surgical Oncology Programs

Pancreatic Cancer/Diseases Program

NPF Center of Excellence

UCLA is recognized as a Clinical and Academic Center of Excellence for Adult Pancreatitis and Pancreatic Cancer by the National Pancreas Foundation (NPF) as a premier healthcare facility that focuses on multidisciplinary treatment of pancreas disease, treating the “whole patient” with a focus on the best possible outcomes and improved quality of life.

We have a high-volume pancreatic cancer and diseases program with outstanding outcomes.  We treat patients with pancreatic cancer (adenocarcinoma), pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, pancreatic cysts, acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, and periampullary and other bile duct tumors. Our clinical program includes a weekly multi-disciplinary tumor board and clinic where treatment plans are developed by all pertinent experts and patients can consult numerous physicians in one location during the same visit.  We have a nurse practitioner and are navigators that minimize the burden on our patients and ensure care is delivered smoothly. We also have many clinical trials for patients to consider.  

  • Phone: 310-206-6889 (Information and referral)
  • Fax: 310-825-9565

Program Information


Sarcoma Program

Reading Room

The UCLA Sarcoma Program provides innovative multidisciplinary treatment for adults and children with sarcoma at any stage of the disease. UCLA is one of the three busiest sarcoma centers in the nation. On an annual basis we evaluate over 1000 patients with sarcoma, over 500 of which undergo surgery at UCLA. At UCLA, a patient’s plan of care is decided by our weekly sarcoma tumor board involving physicians specializing in sarcoma from surgical oncology, orthopedic oncology, gynecologic oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pediatric oncology, pathology and radiology. This group of 15-20 physicians formulate and coordinate optimal treatment strategies for individual patients. 

  • Phone: 310-825-7086 (Information and referral)
  • Fax: 310-825-7575

Program Information


Breast Cancer Program

The Revlon/UCLA Breast Center is located on the Westwood campus and housed in the Division of Surgical Oncology.  It offers multi-disciplinary care to patients with all breast diseases. 

Program Information


Melanoma Program

The UCLA Melanoma Program provides innovative multi-modality treatment for patients with melanoma at any stage of the disease. Treatment options include lymphatic mapping, biological therapy, and gene therapy.

Program Information


HIPEC Surgery

Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemoperfusion (HIPEC) is a specialized treatment for certain abdominal tumors. The purpose of HIPEC treatment is to kill microscopic cancer cells invisible to the human eye and reduce cancer recurrence. 

  • Phone: 310-206-6909 (Information and referral)
  • Fax: 310-825-7575

Program Information


Gastric Cancer Program

The UCLA Health gastrointestinal (GI) cancer treatment team is a world leader in research and treatment of gastrointestinal cancer. Our integrated care team includes gastroenterologists, oncologists, surgeons and radiologists. We use the most up-to-date techniques and technologies to offer you the best chance for a cure.

Program Information


Neuroendocrine Tumor Program

The UCLA NET team is dedicated to providing the best possible care from the time that patients are diagnosed throughout their treatment and follow-up period. Our expert physicians and nurses work closely with specialists throughout UCLA to achieve the most successful outcomes.

Program Information


Division Chief

Chief, Surgical Oncology

Physicians

Surgical Oncology, Breast Surgery
James S Economu
James S Economu, MD, PhD
Surgical Oncology
Surgical Oncology
Surgical Oncology
Surgical Oncology
Breast Surgical Oncology