Thoracic Surgery
Welcome to UCLA Division of Thoracic Surgery!
At UCLA, we believe that multidisciplinary care results in the best outcomes. We collaborate with our expert colleagues in pulmonology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, gastroenterology, radiology, and nuclear medicine to provide you with the optimal care for your specific problem. We would like to thank you for your interest in UCLA Thoracic Surgery. Our site includes detailed descriptions of much of what we do and who we are.
National recognition for excellence
UCLA Health has been ranked the #1 hospital in both California and Los Angeles for hospital-based patient care, according to the U.S. News & World Report rankings released on July 15, 2024.
UCLA Health also continues its long-standing recognition on the Best Hospitals Honor Roll, which highlights the top 20 hospitals in the nation out of nearly 5,000 evaluated. We have earned a place on this prestigious list every year since its inception in 1990.
Among our many distinctions, 12 medical specialties ranked in the top 10 nationwide—pulmonology and lung surgery earned the #3 spot in the country.
Advanced thoracic surgery expertise
Our surgeons specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the thoracic cavity, including the lungs, esophagus, mediastinum, pleura, trachea and airways, diaphragm, and chest wall.
We perform procedures using the most advanced, minimally invasive techniques, including:
- Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS)
- Robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS)
- Laparoscopic surgery
- Image-guided surgery
- Advanced endoscopy and bronchoscopy
These approaches help reduce recovery time, minimize pain, and improve outcomes for patients.
Collaborative, multidisciplinary care
We believe that multidisciplinary collaboration leads to the best outcomes. Our team works closely with experts in:
- Pulmonology
- Medical oncology
- Radiation oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Nuclear medicine
Each case—whether cancerous or benign—is carefully reviewed in multidisciplinary conferences to ensure every patient receives a personalized and comprehensive treatment plan.
Commitment to innovation and education
The UCLA Division of Thoracic Surgery is also a leader in clinical research and innovation. Our team participates in a wide range of clinical trials and research programs that advance the field and expand treatment options for patients.
We are proud to serve as a highly respected training program, helping shape the next generation of thoracic surgeons through rigorous, hands-on education.