Divisions: Department of Surgery

• Anorectal maladies (abscess, anal cancer, fissure, fistula, hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, etc.)
• Colon cancer/Rectal cancer
• Colonic inertia
• Complex fistulas (rectovaginal, colo-vesicular, peri-anal, etc.)
• Diverticulitis
• Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative colitis, Indeterminate colitis)
• Patients desiring colostomy reversal (Hartmann reversal)
• Pilonidal disease
• Polyps requiring advanced endoscopy techniques or surgery
• Radiation proctitis

Prioritizing Patients in Need 

Patients with peri-anal pain and patients newly diagnosed with colorectal cancer are offered appointments the same day or the following day (“no wait” policy).  

Offering Advanced Surgical Interventions 

• Over 80% of our resections are completed using laparoscopic/robotic approaches

• We have broad expertise in colorectal cancer resections and surgery for Inflammatory Bowel Disease and diverticulitis 

• We are a quaternary referral center for complex colorectal problems – over a third of the patients we operate on were seen as a second opinion 

• We encourage sphincter-preserving approaches emphasizing stoma avoidance

• We offer a novel, muscle-sparing approach to managing chronic anal fissures

Outlining an Enhanced Recovery Pathway 

With this approach, post-operative patients have a lower risk of surgical site infection, shorter hospital stays, less pain, and quicker return to baseline level of functioning. 

Using Multi-modal Analgesia 

As a group, we take post-operative pain control very seriously. We routinely utilize state-of-the-art regional nerve blocks (e.g., TAP and erector spinae blocks) using long-lasting, extended-release pain medications and non-narcotic pain medications as well as Gabapentin/pregabalin. Opioids are minimized to the extent possible. 

Providing Personalized Comprehensive Cancer Care 

All cancer patients are presented and reviewed at the weekly multi-disciplinary tumor board at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and care plans are individualized based on the high-level discussion. As New Jersey’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, patients have access to the most advanced treatment options including clinical trials, precision medicine, and immunotherapy. 

Outpatient clinic visits are available Monday through Friday at:

The Clinical Academic Building
125 Paterson Street
4th Floor
New Brunswick, NJ 08901

Or

RWJ Barnabas Hospital at Somerset
The Steeplechase Cancer Center
30 Rehill Avenue
Somerville, NJ 08876

To schedule a new patient appointment or to contact one of our providers, please call 732-235-8845

Aliza Rubin is a national and board-certified Adult-Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner who has been at Rutgers for over 7 years.  She works collaboratively with the Colon and Rectal Surgeons providing care for a variety of benign anorectal conditions. Aliza is nationally certified in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing and is working on increasing access for Ostomates to care and support.

She takes pride in her ability to utilize the caring and holistic approach of nursing and translate that into a pleasant, patient-centered provider approach.  Aliza received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from Rutgers University and graduated with honors.  She went on to work as a staff Nurse at Virtua Health on an acute surgical care unit while obtaining her Master of Science in Nursing.

She is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and a board-certified Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurse.  She is an active member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, the New Jersey State Nurses Association, and the American Nurses Association.  

Examples of ostomy support needs offered are: 

• Skin breakdown 
• Leakage 
• Poorly fitting appliance 
• Stoma markings 
• Pre and post-operative education 
• Support groups

Routine and relatively straight-forward procedures are performed in a same-day surgery setting, with parents often staying with their children throughout the entire process. These procedures include:

• Hernia repair
• Correction of undescended testicles
• Excision of neck lumps
• Removal of skin cysts

Life-threatening congenital abnormalities of the abdomen and chest often require surgery in the newborn period. These are frequently diagnosed in utero, allowing for prenatal counseling and planning. Early detection enables our medical team to prepare for immediate intervention before and after birth.

Providing expert surgical treatment for a vast range of childhood tumors, we work in conjunction with Rutgers Cancer Institute as part of a comprehensive children’s cancer team that includes pediatric oncologists, radiologists, radiotherapists, and social workers. Our collaboration is focused on optimal results for young patients, with careful attention to the emotional well-being of children and parents.

Catheters are placed for long-term intravenous access for cancer patients and hyperalimentation, or total parenteral nutrition, for children who are not fed for long periods of time. Our experienced team performs these procedures with meticulous care and precision on our young patients. 

Children can develop chest wall conditions where the chest either protrudes outward or sinks inward. Our team tailors treatment plans, including non-surgical and surgical options, to address the specific needs of each child.

Through specialized minimally invasive surgical techniques, we offer treatments that lead to significant weight loss and improvement in related conditions, such as high blood pressure, lipid disorders, sleep apnea, and others. Our program is proudly recognized by the American College of Surgeons Metabolic and Bariatric Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program as an Accredited Center for Adolescent Bariatric Surgery.

Our expert trauma team, including three skilled pediatric surgeons and the adult trauma service, provides comprehensive care for all types of multiple trauma patients. With ambulance and helicopter services available and a fully equipped pediatric ICU, we offer the highest level of care in critical situations and give medical students hands-on experience in a real-world trauma setting. For splenic and hepatic injuries, we take a conservative treatment approach. We're honored to be recognized by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma as an Accredited Pediatric Trauma Center, reflecting our commitment to excellence in pediatric care.

Q: What is bariatric surgery, and how does it work? 

A: Bariatric surgery, also referred to as weight-loss surgery, is a type of surgery that helps individuals lose weight by making changes to the digestive system. These types of operations may involve making your stomach smaller, and limiting the amount of food or drink you can consume at one time, so you feel full sooner. Other procedures involve changes to the small intestine, reducing the number of calories your body can absorb. 

Q: Are there different types of bariatric surgery? 

A: There are several different types of bariatric surgery, including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy (gastric sleeve surgery). In gastric bypass surgery, the surgeon staples the upper section of your stomach, creating a small pouch.

Your small intestine is then divided into two parts — the lower part is attached directly to the small stomach pouch, while the upper part of the small intestine is reconnected farther down. In gastric sleeve surgery, a surgeon removes most of your stomach, leaving a banana-shaped section that reduces the amount of food that can fit in your stomach, making you feel full sooner. 

Q: Which bariatric procedures do you offer at Rutgers Adolescent Obesity and Foregut Surgery Program? 

A: We currently offer Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy.  

Q: How do I know if I’m a candidate for bariatric surgery? 

A: In general, guides recommend being evaluated for surgery by a multidisciplinary team with expertise in pediatrics if individuals have either a BMI of 40 or above; or if they have a BMI of 35 or more with serious obesity-related health problems, such as type 2 diabetes or severe sleep apnea.

However, other factors also play a role in determining whether bariatric surgery is the right option—for example, age, smoking habits, and any prior surgeries. You must have tried multiple other weight-loss methods in the past, and a psychological evaluation is also taken into consideration.

You also must be committed to lifelong changes in dietary, exercise and medical routines, as well as surgical follow-up care. Our team will work with you to determine whether bariatric surgery is an appropriate option. 

Q: Does my age prevent me from being considered for bariatric surgery? 

A: Weight-loss surgery may be an option for adolescents and teens who have severe obesity and obesity-related health problems. We have performed bariatric surgery on patients of varying ages. 

Q: Is bariatric surgery an easy solution for weight loss? 

A: Bariatric surgery should not be considered a “quick fix” to weight problems. It is a lengthy transformation process that starts many months before surgery takes place and that requires a strong commitment to lifestyle changes that will need to be continued for life. It takes a lot of dedication, patience, and work. 

Q: Is bariatric surgery safe? 

A: Bariatric surgery has been found to be a safe way to achieve weight loss; however, as with all surgical procedures, there are risks. You should be familiar with the risks associated with your specific bariatric procedure before signing consent for surgery. 

Q: What are the side effects of bariatric surgery? 

A: Side effects are varied and may include bleeding, infection, leaking from the site, diarrhea, and blood clots. Rarely, surgery-related problems can lead to death.

Other side effects may occur later, including nutritional issues related to the body’s inability to absorb enough nutrients; strictures; hernias; and gallstones as a result of rapid weight loss. 

Q: What if I’ve already had bariatric surgery? Are there other options? 

A: Surgical options may be available if you’ve already had bariatric surgery and gained significant weight afterward. Not everyone is a good candidate for those procedures, however. Our surgeon can discuss these options with you to determine whether any would be good for you. 

Q: How long is the process before the actual bariatric surgery procedure? 

A: It usually takes six months from the time of your first information session to the actual date of surgery. The length of time depends on how long it takes to complete all the necessary preoperative testing and appointments, as well as any insurance requirements. 

Q: What is a six-month supervised diet? How do I know if I need one? 

A: Many insurance companies require prospective bariatric surgery patients to have undergone a six-month, medically supervised weight-loss program focused on their diet. This program involves six consecutive monthly meetings in which a physician monitors your progress.

If a meeting is missed, you would need to do an additional six consecutive months of the supervised diet. During our team’s initial contact with your insurance company, we will help you determine whether this is required as part of your policy.

In addition, if you have had a limited number of previous weight-loss attempts, our program also may require you to complete this process. You will discuss this during your first appointment with the registered dietitian.

Q: Do I need a psychological evaluation before bariatric surgery? 

A: Yes. All patients involved in our program require a psychological evaluation. You may use your own psychologist/psychiatrist, or we can provide you with recommendations. 

Q: What other specialists will I need to see before I can have bariatric surgery? 

A: Depending on your medical history, weight, and other factors, you may be referred to a variety of other specialists, including a pulmonologist, gastroenterologist, or cardiologist. You also will meet regularly with our registered dietitian and other members of our multidisciplinary team. 

Q: Do I need medical clearance for bariatric surgery? 

A: You will need medical clearance from your pediatrician or family practitioner before surgery. It must be sent to our office at least two weeks before your scheduled surgery, and it should include your medical history, your current prescriptions, and a plan for your medications on the day of surgery, as well as the days following. 

Q: Can I smoke before surgery? 

A: If you are a smoker, you must stop at least two months before your surgery. Smoking increases the risks from the surgery, as well as the chances of developing pneumonia and slowing the healing process. If you are still smoking, your surgery may be delayed. Smoking cessation programs can be recommended if you are having difficulties.

Q: What happens if I gain weight during the pre-procedure process? 

A: If you gain a substantial amount of weight during this period and it’s unrelated to medications, your surgery may be postponed. 

Q: What is H. Pylori and why is it a concern? 

A: H. Pylori, or Helicobacter Pylori, is a type of bacteria that causes infection in the stomach. It’s the main cause of peptic ulcers and also can cause gastritis and stomach cancer. It usually does not cause symptoms, but it can break down the protective coating in some people’s stomachs and cause inflammation.

It’s important to treat this condition before having bariatric surgery to help prevent complications after the procedure. It can be treated with a combination of antibiotics and acid-reducing medicines, which will be prescribed if needed by your healthcare team. 

Q: What is an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy)? 

A: Also referred to as an upper GI endoscopy, EGD is used to help diagnose and treat symptoms and conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, and upper intestine or duodenum.

It is used before bariatric surgery to check your stomach and the upper intestine for any abnormalities. EGDs are performed using a scope inserted through your mouth while you are sedated. Your surgeon will determine its timing. 

Q: How are bariatric procedures performed? 

A: Rutgers Adolescent Obesity and Foregut Surgery Program performs its bariatric procedures using a minimally invasive method: laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery requires only small cuts, under general anesthesia. Through these small incisions, the surgeon can insert thin tools and a small scope attached to a camera that projects images onto a video monitor. 

Q: Will I be put to sleep during the surgery? 

A: Yes. Bariatric surgery is performed under general anesthesia. This combination of medications is administered through an IV and/or a mask. Once you are asleep, a tube may be placed in your throat to help you breathe. Once the surgery is complete, the anesthesiologist will reverse the medication and monitor you to help you return to consciousness.  

Q: How long does the operation take? 

A: The time varies depending on the type of operation. For sleeve gastrectomy, the typical time in surgery is one to two hours, while for gastric bypass it is two to three hours. It may take longer if you’ve had previous surgeries. 

Q: How long will I be in the hospital after bariatric surgery? 

A: The time you’re in the hospital depends not only on the type of surgery you’ve had but also on your recovery. In general, though, patients who have had the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy are in the hospital for two nights or more.

Q: When will I follow up with my surgeon after surgery? 

A: You will have several follow-up appointments with the surgeon following your procedure, the first of which will be during the second week after your surgery. You also will meet with your bariatric surgeon the month after surgery and three months following surgery. Additional follow-up appointments will be scheduled with one of our advanced practice providers (e.g., physician assistant and/or nurse practitioner) for six months after surgery, and annually thereafter. 

Q: Will I be on a special diet after bariatric surgery? 

A: As part of your recovery, you will be placed on a special diet immediately after surgery to help your stomach heal. It will start with clear liquids only, and then progress to purees and, finally, solid foods. During your preoperative meetings with our registered dietitian, you will receive a copy of the post-surgery diet, as well as information about the dietary restrictions and changes you will need to make as part of your new, healthier lifestyle. 

Q: Do I have to take vitamins after bariatric surgery? 

A: Yes. Vitamins are critical to replace any vitamins and nutrients you will lose now that your body is absorbing things differently. If you do not take them every day, you can develop such problems as weak and broken bones, anemia, fatigue, dizziness, nerve damage, difficulty walking, tingling in your hands and feet, and more. Both gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy require you to take daily multivitamins and calcium for life. With gastric bypass surgery, you also will need to take an iron supplement daily. 

Q: Is it important that I get my vitamin labs checked after bariatric surgery? 

A: Yes, they must be monitored regularly through blood tests. During the first year after surgery, you will need to have your vitamin levels checked every three months. You should maintain annual blood tests to monitor your vitamin levels and determine whether you require any additional supplements. 

Q: How soon after surgery can I exercise? 

A: Exercise is vitally important to your recovery and ongoing health. It will help improve your circulation, reduce the risk of blood clots, and also will help promote wound healing, and prevent constipation. You will be encouraged to get out of bed and into a chair a few hours after surgery. The following day, you will begin brief walks in the hospital. Once you return home, we recommend walking for 30 minutes every day. You will need to avoid any strenuous activities (e.g., running, dancing, swimming) for four to six weeks after your surgery. Your surgeon will tell you when it is safe to resume these types of activities. It’s also important to remember that you do not lift anything greater than 10 pounds—including any pets or children—for at least a month. Our team can help provide you with some suggestions for a suitable exercise regimen. 

Q: Will I experience nausea, vomiting, or constipation after bariatric surgery? 

A: Nausea, vomiting, and constipation can all occur after bariatric surgery. Eating specific types of food, eating too fast, or even drinking with meals can all cause you to feel nauseated or vomit. While it’s usual that most patients will vomit at one point, if you find that you are continuously vomiting, please call your surgeon immediately or go to the closest emergency department. Constipation, meanwhile, also is common and more likely to occur if you need to take iron supplements. You might need to take an over-the-counter stool softener for the first month or two after your surgery. Avoid taking laxatives regularly. 

Q: Will I experience emotional changes after bariatric surgery? 

A: It is possible. Some patients have reported feeling like they are on an “emotional roller coaster” after surgery. Other potential issues include depression and/or anxiety, replacing one addiction (food) with another, dealing with unrealistic expectations, feelings of insecurity, and even changes in your relationship dynamics. Individuals who have used food and emotional eating as a coping mechanism might experience particular problems. If you are experiencing any of these issues, you should speak with a psychologist or psychiatrist for treatment. 

Q: Are support groups available? 

A: Yes, many support groups are available. You will be required to attend at least two support group meetings before your surgery. We recommend continuing to participate after surgery as well. 

Q: How soon after bariatric surgery can I become pregnant? 

A: Because it can be dangerous for you and your baby, as well as increase the risk for birth defects, you must avoid becoming pregnant for the first two years after your bariatric surgery. Rapid weight loss can increase fertility, so you will need to take extra precautions to avoid becoming pregnant during this time.

Q: Do I need a referral to see a bariatric surgeon? 

A: Regardless of your insurance requirements, our program requests a referral from your pediatrician or family physician before seeing the surgeon. You will need to bring this referral with you to your first appointment.  

Q: Does insurance cover bariatric surgery? 

A: Most major insurance companies cover bariatric surgery; however, policies may vary, and they may not cover all bariatric procedures. Our team will assist in verifying your insurance company’s coverage and any requirements. 

Q: What happens if my insurance changes before I have the surgery? 

A: It is important to notify us immediately if your insurance changes at any time, because policies may differ concerning bariatric surgery requirements. Our team will help work with your new insurance company to determine any necessary changes to your scheduled testing and appointments. 

Q: Will my insurance cover my medications and vitamins after surgery? 

A: Your insurance should cover your post-surgery medications; however, some insurance plans will only cover specific brands in their formulary. If your insurance does not cover the brand you were prescribed, our office can provide you with a different prescription. Insurance does not always cover vitamins, so you might need to pay out-of-pocket costs for these. 

Q: Will my insurance cover plastic surgery after I reach my goal weight? 

A: Many of these types of post-bariatric plastic surgery procedures are not covered by insurance. Please check with your insurance provider to determine whether it is covered under your specific policy.

During this session, you'll learn more about the criteria for the program, the different bariatric surgical procedures we provide, the risks, and benefits of surgery, and the necessary lifestyle changes you'll need to make, including any dietary restrictions and exercise.

During this appointment, your surgeon will review your medical history and examine you. You will discuss the surgical options available and have the chance to ask questions. After speaking with the surgeon, you also may meet with one of our dietitians. All patients are required to complete at least six consecutive months of our weight management program.

At the end of the third visit, you will receive a preoperative testing and consultation checklist. This checklist includes a list of diagnostic and laboratory tests, consultations, insurance requirements, and support groups you will be required to complete before proceeding with your surgery. 

All tests and consultations with other medical specialties must be completed in a timely manner to avoid the need for duplicate studies and appointments. Many insurance companies require all tests to be completed within six months of surgery.

Once you have completed the checklist given to you in Step 3, call our patient line at 732-235-7321 and we will schedule an appointment for you to return and see the surgeon at a "Review and Consent Appointment."

You will schedule your consent for surgery at this appointment. In addition, the following will take place:

• Our staff will check your weight
• Your surgeon will review your diagnostic tests
• You must be able to demonstrate your understanding of the risks and benefits associated with the surgery you will be having

Within two weeks of signing your consent, our office will call you with a surgery date based on your surgeon's availability. You will also receive dates for preoperative testing, like labwork, an EKG, and possibly an EGD, and visit with an anesthesiologist, and a mandatory preoperative class.

During this class, the dietitian will review your pre- and post-operative diet. You will have the opportunity to ask diet-related questions. Our team will review medications to stop before surgery, how to prepare for surgery, and what to expect immediately after surgery while in the hospital, as well as when you are home. 

Note: You must bring a medical clearance letter from your primary care doctor to this appointment.

You will then visit the hospital to undergo your surgery.

Local Farmer's Markets

Rutgers Gardens - Marketplace for both local farmers/producers. The market features more than 20 vendors, including the Student Farm at Rutgers Gardens, which demonstrates land stewardship by practicing sustainable growing practices and providing our communities with quality, nutritious food.

130 Log Cabin Rd.
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
732-932-8451
Fridays, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. 

New Brunswick Community Farmers Market - Marketplace for local farms. Fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods. Each location offers nutrition education lessons and information about incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your meals, safely preparing meats and poultry, and proper food storage techniques. These Farmer's Markets accept federal food assistance benefits.  

NBCFM Market Pavilion 
178 Jones Ave. 
New Brunswick, NJ 08901 
848-932-3501
Tuesdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (June-October)  

Kilmer Square Park 
108 Albany St. 
New Brunswick, NJ 08901 
848-932-3501
Wednesdays, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (June-October) 

Highland Park Farmers Market - Marketplace for local farms. The downtown market offers high quality, NJ-CFC certified, Jersey-fresh produce; grass-fed beef; artisanal cheese; breads; pies; fresh eggs; cooking demonstrations and more.  

212 Raritan Ave. 
732-828-8444 
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Fridays, 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Community Pools

YMCA Oakcrest Community Pool - This community pool is an outdoor swim club for families to enjoy. The facility includes a 25-meter, six-lane pool, spiral tube slide, playground, bathroom, and showers, tennis courts, basketball courts, sand volleyball courts, and more. It is situated on 14 acres in Edison.  

970 Inman Ave.
Edison, NJ 08820 
908-756-9853 

Crystal Springs Family Waterpark - This is a spacious outdoor park featuring various pools, including a lap pool and a family pool.  

380 Dunhams Corner Rd. 
East Brunswick, NJ 08816 
732-390-6834

Physical Fitness Centers

Robert Wood Johnson Fitness & Wellness Center - RWJ Fitness & Wellness is a state-of-the-art fitness and wellness center, equipped with an array of premier amenities to help you achieve your personal fitness goals. You will receive complimentary evaluations with new workouts every six weeks. They offer lap, therapy, and spa pools, group fitness, and a premier fitness floor.

100 Kirkpatrick St. 
Suite 201 
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
732-873-1222 

Anytime Fitness - This gym is a 24-hour, 365-day-a-year health and fitness club. Every member gets a free personalized “Get Started Plan” when you join. This gym offers team workouts and personal training.  

441 Elizabeth Ave.
Somerset, NJ 08873 
732-584-6111 

Planet Fitness - This gym offers small group training sessions, a personalized exercise program, certified trainers, 30-minute express circuits, and more.   

561 US Hwy 1 
Edison, NJ 08817 
732-584-6111 

Note: These community resources are included for informational purposes only. Their inclusion does not imply endorsement or support of any of the services, products, or providers.​​​​​​

Links to Associations, Organizations, and Institutes

• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
• American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery -- Patient Learning Center
• Bariatric Support Centers International
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Overweight & Obesity Information
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
• Obesity Action Coalition
• The Obesity Society Patient Informational Pages

Websites

• MyFitnessPal - Track calories, break down ingredients and log activities with this digital tool; online food diary with searchable food database, free mobile apps, discussion forums, and personalized diet profile.
• Lose It! - Personalized weight-loss plain, logging food/calories and exercise, and community support; includes free and premium options.
• Fit Day - Resource for articles on nutrition and fitness, as well as access to community forums.
• Obesity Help  - Online discussion, educational articles, bariatricfriendly products and tools, and a national conference with the goal of educating, empowering and supporting individuals affected by life-threatening obesity.
• PRIA Appeals - Helps patients who have received an insurance denial for a surgical procedure or medical treatment, including bariatric and reconstructive surgery.

Online Nutrition Resources

• Good food on a tight budget: A shopping guide

Recipe and Self-Help Books

• The Bariatric Foodie Guide to Perfect Protein Shakes (Volume 1)
  • By Nikki L. Massie
• The Bariatric Foodie Breakfast Book
  • By Nikki L. Massie
• Before & After, 2nd Revised Edition: Living and Eating Well after Weight-loss Surgery
  • By Susan Maria Leach
• William Morrow Cookbooks The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Eating Well After Weight Loss Surgery
  • By Margaret Furtado and Joseph Ewing Alpha
• Cookwise with Chef Dave
  • By Chef Dave Fouts
• Weight Wise Bariatric Program Culinary Classics: Essentials of Cooking for the Gastric Bypass Patient
  • By David Fouts
• U.S. Bariatric Nutrition/Recipes Eating Well after Weight Loss Surgery: Over 140 Delicious Low-Fat, High-Protein Recipes to Enjoy in the Weeks, Months and Years after Surgery
  • By Patt Levine, Michelle Bontempo-Saray, William B. Inabnet, MD, and Meredith Urban-Skuros, MS, RD De Capo Lifelong Books
• Recipes for Life after Weight-Loss Surgery: Delicious Dishes for Nourishing the New You (Revised & Updated)
  • By Margaret Furtado, Lynette Schultz and Chef Joseph Ewing, Fair Winds Press
• Recipes for Weight Loss Surgery Success: Starting Your Journey Step-by-Step
  • By Chef Dave Fouts, iUniverse Publishing
• Weight Loss Surgery Cookbook for Dummies (2nd Edition)
  • By Brian K. Davidson and Sarah Krieger
• The Emotional First-Aid Kit: A Practical Guide to Life after Bariatric Surgery (2nd Edition)
  • By Cynthia L. Alexander, Matrix Medical Communications
• Successful Weight Loss with the Gastric Sleeve: Your personal guide to surgical options and healthy recuperation (2nd Edition)
  • By Dr. Guillermo Alvarez
• The Success Habits of Weight Loss Surgery Patients (3rd Edition)
  • By Colleen M. Cook, Bariatric Support Centers International

The complete range of cosmetic services we perform includes facelifts, browlifts, nasal surgery, eyelid surgery, breast augmentation, chemical peel, laser surgery, dermabrasion, liposuction, body contouring, and abdominoplasty. The goal of cosmetic surgery is always to achieve the best personal appearance for you.

Everyone is a unique individual with special concerns and desires. We listen carefully to your desires and treatment is tailored to your specific needs. After a complete evaluation, your doctor thoroughly discusses the proposed treatment and answers all your questions. Our team works to educate you about what you can expect before and after the operation.

To assure your comfort and privacy, we provide all evaluations in our private office setting. Surgery can be performed confidentially at any one of several out-patient facilities depending on your wishes.

We provide the following cosmetic surgical procedures:

• Rhinoplasty (nasal surgery)
• Facelift (rhytidectomy)
• Eyelids (blepharoplasty)
• Neck lift (cervicoplasty)
• Skin cancers of the face (basal, squamous cell, and melanoma),
• Ear-cosmetic & reconstruction (otoplasty)
• Post-trauma reconstruction (scars and bone)

In addition to the full scope of cosmetic surgery, we perform reconstruction on all types of facial injuries, and tumors of the face, jaws, and nose. We treat fractures of facial bones, nose, and jaw from car accidents or work-related trauma. We also repair residual facial deformities due to poor healing or scars.

The center's surgeons can remove common skin tumors of any size or type, and provide expert plastic reconstruction, including:

• Basal cell skin cancer (most common)
• Squamous cell skin cancer (less common)
• Malignant melanoma (increasingly common)

Skin lesions that do not heal in 4 to 6 weeks are suspicious for skin cancer, especially in people with previous or recent sun exposure.

Any physician can remove skin cancer, but our expert plastic surgeons offer optimal care with the most cosmetically acceptable results. We are closely affiliated with the Cancer Institute of New Jersey in New Brunswick.

Whether you are looking for enlargement (augmentation mammaplasty), reduction (reduction mammaplasty), lift (mastopexy), or reconstruction after mastectomy (implant, expander, or tram), the center offers complete breast plastic surgery service for cosmetic breast contouring, such as lifting, enlargement, and correction of abnormalities.

We perform all methods of reconstruction after surgery for breast cancer, as well as breast reduction for overly large breasts. We serve as the principal plastic surgeons for the New Jersey Comprehensive Breast Care Center at the Cancer Institute of New Jersey.

Dr. Borah is the director of the skin laser center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and has over twenty years of laser experience. Our doctors are experts in skin laser treatments of all types, including:

• Wrinkles
• Red spots (port wine stains)
• Spider veins
• Surface leg veins
• Tattoos
• Age spots

We can choose from six different types of lasers to correct cosmetic skin blemishes and wrinkles. We can also lighten or eliminate unsightly blood vessels in the skin of the face, legs, or hands using laser light.

The center's team treats work-related hand injuries at the time of injury and afterward, including:

• Work-related injuries (fractures, scars, tendon injuries)
• Automobile-related injuries (all types)
• Cysts or masses
• Cancers
• Dupuytren’s contracture
• Nerve injury or numbness
• Vascular abnormalities
• Degenerative joint diseases
• Carpal tunnel
• Soft tissue and bone masses
• Birth defects
• Trauma (fractures, dislocations, lacerations, etc.)
• And more

We coordinate your treatment with specialized hand and occupational therapists, rheumatologists, and primary care physicians to achieve the optimum results from surgery.

The surgical team offers the most advanced treatment for skin hemangiomas, tumors, and birthmarks. We work closely with pediatricians, pediatric anesthesiologists, and other professionals to provide comprehensive care for your child. While scarless surgery is not yet possible, our aim is always to correct your child's problem with the least amount of scarring.

Procedures we perform include those involving:

• Birthmarks (congenital nevi, port wine stains)
• Blood vessel tumors (hemangiomas, port wine stains)
• Cleft lip and palate
• Hand abnormalities (extra digits, fused fingers or toes)
• Ear abnormalities (prominent ear, cup ear, missing ear):

Birth defects including abnormalities of the ear, face, skull, cleft lip and palate, hand, and breast are treated from infancy through adulthood.

The surgeons at the center are nationally and internationally recognized experts in their fields, and we offer consultation, second (or third) opinions, reassurance, or services related to complex cases or unsatisfactory results for any problem related to cosmetic or reconstructive plastic surgery.

Our independent evaluations can help you decide on the best course of action for treating your condition. We may confirm the advantages of your present course of therapy, or offer an alternative approach. We provide this service in the strictest confidentiality.

The surgeons at the Center use sophisticated "tissue transplantation" to rebuild defects from trauma, tumors, or other deforming conditions. Our doctors are specially trained in the most advanced techniques in microsurgery to achieve the complex reconstructive demands required for defects of the leg, arm, and head. These include:

• Free flaps (tissue transplantation)
• Nerve repair
• Hand blood vessel repair
• Work-related finger or hand reattachment

The microsurgical team performs emergency finger, limb, scalp, and ear reattachment operations related to work injury, in addition to delayed reconstruction. We can arrange the transfer of hospitalized patients to our service from other hospitals where these sophisticated services are not available.

The surgeons at the Center operate at the premier hospitals in Central New Jersey - including: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, St Peter's University Hospital, and (CARES) Surgical Center in New Brunswick and The Medical Center at Princeton.

We are available for emergencies 24 hours a day. After hours and on weekends, our answering service will relay your message to (732) 235-7865.

In cases of emergency, please go directly to the emergency room at the nearest hospital, or to the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick.

The patient is always responsible for the bill. Payment for charges are due at the time of service. However, bills will be submitted to insurance for patients who are covered under Medicare, and by other insurance plans, depending on the rules for each company.

The doctors at the center are participants in most managed care insurance plans. Please let our staff know the name of your plan when making your appointment to help us prepare the proper paperwork. All cosmetic surgery patients are required to meet their financial obligations before having their surgery.

We aim to provide the highest quality of care for you and your family. You can help in that process by making a list of any questions that you would like discussed at the time of your visit.

If you have been referred to us by another physician, please have the referring physician's name and address available when you come for your visit. Please bring your insurance card plus a referral sheet (if your plan requires one) and any relevant test results and X-rays to expedite your consultation.

The Division includes Principal Laboratory Investigators, whose areas of interest include: Angiogenesis control and regulation; apoptosis; cellular adhesion; cytokine expression and regulation; virally-mediated immuno-modulatory gene therapy, and and pancreatic and melanoma cancer biology.

Each investigator maintains an active research laboratory interacting with colleagues within the institution and with extramural collaborators. They have successfully competed for grant support from Federal and other granting agencies.

The Division works to translate basic science research directly to the care of patients. These efforts involve close collaborations between clinicians and laboratory-based researchers. Current translational projects include initiatives in breast cancer, bladder cancer, prostate cancer, melanoma, pancreas cancer, and colorectal cancer. 

The Division Faculty research interests are broad and include studies in embryonic development (Foty), wound healing (Corbett), tissue engineering (Foty), malignant invasion (Foty), inflammation and sepsis (Calvano, Corbett), gut immunity (Laouar), and renal transplantation and physiology (Laskow, Osband). Basic research methodology spans the multi-scale from molecular biology, to cell, tissue, and organismal biology as well as biomechanics.

State-of-the-art research facilities and technical expertise provide an excellent teaching environment for undergraduates, graduate students, post-docs, medical students, and residents. Division Faculty have a long and productive publication history and have been highly successful at generating new NIH and other federal, State, and private funding for their programs.

The Division also provides support for small and large animal research programs. This includes capabilities for the development of innovative techniques, monitoring, long-term care, and standard as well as non-traditional assays. The vivarium is staffed by technical personnel with experience in diverse surgical technologies.

The Division has established a rapid response program that promotes a seamless entry point for individuals and industry partners seeking to take advantage of these facilities. The details of this initiative are outlined below.

A major theme of the Division is the encouragement of patient-oriented research. Many members of the faculty avail themselves of the expertise afforded by Division faculty and staff in the pursuit of both investigator-initiated and sponsored research. Several NIH-sponsored clinical research initiatives are underway in the division (see below).

Highly experienced support staff are available to provide assistance in trial design, contracting, and protocol submission as well as comprehensive clinical trials management. Biostatistical support is also available through the Division. A rapid response clinical trials program assures effective clinical trial initiation.

Division Leadership

Joseph Barone, MD, MBA, FAAP
Division Chief
Professor
Section Chief, Pediatric Urology
Surgeon-In-Chief, Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital, RWJUH
Phone: 732-235-7960
Fax: 732-235-6042

Sammy E. Elsamra, MD, FACS
Director of Robotic Surgical Services, Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Hospital, New Brunswick
Associate Professor
Section Chief, General Urology
Phone: 732-235-7775
Fax: 7 32-235-8018
elsamrsa@rwjms.rutgers.edu

Thomas L. Jang, MD, MPH, FACS
Chief of Urologic Oncology
Associate Professor, Department of Surgery
Director, Program in Testicular Cancer & Retroperitoneal Surgery
Program Director, Urology Residency Program
Phone: 732-235-8515
Fax: 732-235-3299
jangtl@cinj.rutgers.edu

Academic Faculty

Haris Ahmed, MD
Assistant Professor
Section of Pediatric Urology
Phone: 732-235-7960
Fax: 732-235-6042
ahmedhs@rwjms.rutgers.edu

Saum Ghodoussipour, MD
Assistant Professor
Section of Urologic Oncology
Phone: 732-235-8515
Fax: 732-235-3299
sg1621@cinj.rutgers.edu

David Golombos, MD
Associate Professor
Section of Urologic Oncology
Phone: 732-235-8515
Fax: 732-235-3299
golombdm@cinj.rutgers.edu

Ji Hae Park, MD
Assistant Professor
Director, Endocrinology and Stone Disease
BP Surgical Simulation/Surgical Skills Training
Assistant Director, Urology Residency Program
Phone: 732-235-7775
Fax: 732-235-8018
park10@rwjms.rutgers.edu

Danielle Velez Leitner, MD
Assistant Professor
Director, Men's Health
Phone: 732-235-7775
Fax: 732-235-8018
velezd1@rwjms.rutgers.edu

Charles Concodora, MD
Assistant Professor
Section of Pediatric Urology
200 Wyckoff Road, Eatontown
Phone: 723-235-7960
Fax: 732-235-6042
concodcw@rwjms.rutgers.edu

Chrystal Chang, MD
Assistant Professor
Genitourinary Reconstructive Surgery
Phone: 732-235-7775
Fax: 732-235-8018
chrystal.chang@rwjms.rutgers.edu

Vignesh Packiam, MD
Assistant Professor
Section of Urologic Oncology
Phone: 732-235-8515
Fax: 732-235-3299
Vignesh.Packiam@cinj.rutgers.edu

Kara McAbee, MD
Assistant Professor
Section of Pediatric Urology
Phone: 732-235-7960
Fax: 732-235-6042
km1975@rwjms.rutgers.edu

Wayland Wu, MD
Assistant Professor
Section of Pediatric Urology
Phone: 732-235-7960
Fax: 732-235-6042
ww463@rwjms.rutgers.edu

APNS

Andrea Hart, NP-C
Adult Urology

Joanna Gurdak, APN-BC
Adult Urology

Jasper Pechera, MSN, FNP-C
Pediatric Urology

Robert Wood Johnson Medical School/Cancer Institute of NJ

• Joseph Barone, M.D., M.B.A., F.A.C.S., F.A.A.P.
• Haris Ahmed, M.D.
• Chrystal Chang, M.D.
• Charles Concodora, M.D.
• Sammy Elsamra, M.D., F.A.C.S.
• Saum Ghodoussipour, M.D.
• David Golombos, M.D.
• Thomas Jang, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.S.
• Kara McAbee, M.D.
• Ji Hae Park, M.D.
• Danielle Velez, M.D.
• Vignesh Packiam, M.D.
• Wayland Wu, M.D.
• Joanna Gurdak, APN-BC
• Andrea Hart,MSN, APRN, FNP-C
• Jasper Pechera, MSN-FNP-C

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital

• Akwasi Boateng, M.D.
• Marc Feder, M.D.
• David Koota, M.D.
• Edward White, M.D.

Robert Wood Johnson Somerset

• Anthony Cantanese, M.D.
• Neel Shah, M.D. 
• Nitin Patel, M.D.
• Dhiren Dave, M.D.
• Joel Fischer, M.D.
• Keith Harmon, M.D.
• Mary McHugh, D.O

• John Sheng, M.D.

• Katherine Shapiro, MD

Princeton University Medical Center

• Karen Latzko, M.D.
• Barry Rossman, M.D.
• Alexi Wedmid, M.D.
• Heather Van Raalte, M.D.
• Alexander Vukasin, M.D.

Monmouth Medical Center

• Charles Concodora, M.D. (Pediatric Urology)

Multidisciplinary CINJ Team Members

• Mark Bramwit, M.D. (GU Radiology)
• Ronald Ennis, M.D.  (Rad Onc)
• Lara Hathout, M.D. (Rad Onc)
• Sinae Kim, PhD (Biostats)
• Tina Mayer, M.D. (Med Onc)
• John Nosher, M.D. (Interventional Radiology)
• Rahul Parikh, M.D. (Rad Onc)
• Evita Sadamin, M.D. (GU Pathology)
• Biren Saraiya, M.D. (Med Onc)
• Ryan Stephenson, M.D. (Med Onc)

Patients having problems with erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory and orgasmic disorders, male factor infertility, and other issues affecting men's health will benefit from our Andrology Program.

Our program presents the patient with a variety of treatment options to improve relationships, build families, and improve quality of life.

For locations and appointments, please call:

Danielle Velez, MD
732-235-7775

Locations:

• 125 Paterson Street, New Brunswick, New Jersey
• 18 Centre Drive,  Suite 104, Monroe, New Jersey

The broad goals of the section of Urologic Oncology are to cure patients with genitourinary malignancies, conduct high-quality clinical research that leads to better outcomes for patients with genitourinary malignancies, and collaborate with investigators at The Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ) conducting basic research on genitourinary malignancies in order to develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Four faculty members focus on treatment of Adult Urologic Malignancies:

Urologic Oncologists:

• Thomas Jang, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.S, Associate Professor
• Saum Ghodoussipour, MD, Assistant Professor
• David Golombos, MD, Assistant Professor

All faculty members who treat urologic malignancies are members of The Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in New Jersey. Our CINJ clinics are based on a multidisciplinary team approach including:

Medical Oncologists:

• Robert DiPaola, M.D.
• Marc Stein, M.D.
• Tina Mayer, M.D.

Oncology Specialty Nursing:

• Kathy Morris R.N., B.S.N., O.C.N.
• Stephanie Matlin, R.N. B.S.N.
• Ashwini Rao, R.N., B.S.N.

Radiation Oncologists:

• Sung Kim, M.D.
• Sabin Motwani, M.D.
• Atif Khan, M.D.

Pediatric Urology involves diagnosing and treating urologic problems in children from birth to early adulthood. Some conditions, such as fluid-filled enlargement of the kidneys, are even evaluated antenatally (before birth).

The pediatric urology program at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School is under the direction of Dr. Joseph G. Barone. It is a world-class program, offering treatment of hernia and hydrocele, vesicoureteral reflux, ureteropelvic junction obstruction, hypospadias, voiding dysfunction, and infection. For children who wet the bed, the pediatric urology program offers a comprehensive diagnostic and treatment program, one of a few such programs in the country.

Though day procedures may be performed at one of several surgicenters, the Pediatric Urology Program is based at The Children's Hospital at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. The Children's Hospital at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital features a variety of pediatric subspecialists for situations that require a multidisciplinary approach, including pediatric radiology and pediatric anesthesia.

Pediatric child life nurses provide an excellent teaching program for children who require surgery. At the Children's Hospital, you are encouraged to accompany your child into the operating room, comfort your child in the postoperative recovery room, and sleep in your child's room should an overnight stay be necessary. Dr. Barone also provides a second opinion program for consultation before your child has surgery.

Office Location and Appointments

• Joseph Barone, MD, MBA
• Harris Ahmed, MD
• Charles Concodora, MD
• Kara McAbee, MD
• Wayland Wu, MD

Locations

• 1 World's Fair Drive, Somerset
• 125 Paterson Street, Suite 3300, New Brunswick
• 200 Wyckoff Road, Eatontown
• 201 Lyons Avenue, Newark

Appointments

Please call: (732) 235-7960

Endourology is the use of a small telescope to gain access to the urinary system. This minimally invasive technique allows our Doctors to visualize the inside of the bladder, ureter, and kidney, without making a surgical incision. In this manner, the presence of a stone, polyp, or tumor not otherwise seen in the urinary tract can be determined.

We have found that in many patients, treatment should be performed endoscopically. This can be accomplished at our center through the use of specially adapted lithotriptor and laser probes. We currently have an active program for the evaluation and treatment of upper urinary tract stones and tumors, which many patients have found helpful.

Laparoscopy is performed by passing a telescope through the abdominal wall, usually at the umbilicus, to visualize the inside of the abdomen and pelvis directly. Though primarily diagnostic in adults and children, interventional laparoscopy is evolving.

For example, lymphadenectomy (removal of lymph nodes) for the staging of urologic malignancy may be performed through this technique, avoiding an incision and prolonged hospitalization. Laparoscopy is also helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of some children with undescended testicle(s). Our approach to additional laparoscopic techniques is in evolution and we would be happy to talk with you regarding this.

Office Locations and Appointments

Clinical Academic Building
Room 4100
125 Patterson Street
New Brunswick, NJ 08901

1 Worlds Fair Drive
1st-floor Surgery Suite
Somerset, NJ 08873

For Appointments: (732) 235-7775

Treatment for Stress Incontinence

Surgical therapy for urinary incontinence has made tremendous advances over the last decade. A relatively new minimally invasive technique to treat stress urinary incontinence is gaining popularity among urologists, the self-fixating mid-urethral slings. These slings can be placed using a variety of approaches, tailored to meet the needs of the patient, and have a high success rate.

The technique can be performed in 30 minutes and requires small vaginal and suprapubic or thigh crease incisions. Patients can return to full activity within two weeks. Another approach to managing stress incontinence is with bulking agents which are injected near the urethral sphincter to increase coaptation. This procedure is very low-risk and can be performed in the office with local anesthesia.

Treatment for Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Condition and Refractory Overactive Bladder

In the past, urge incontinence could only be treated with medications or complex urinary diversions. Recently, urologists have realized the potential applications of Botulinum A toxin in the lower urinary tract. This minimally invasive therapy is performed in the office and is effective in the management of idiopathic and neuropathic bladder overactivity, detrusor sphincter dysynergia, and urinary retention.

Sacral neuromodulation has been another breakthrough therapy for patients with refractory conditions of the lower urinary tract. This therapy uses an implantable neurostimulator and lead to generate electrical pulses to stimulate the sacral nerves which influence the behavior of the bladder, sphincter, and pelvic floor.

It has proven to provide safe and effective relief of urinary urge incontinence, non-obstructive urinary retention, and urgency-frequency syndrome. The procedure is performed in 2 stages. In the first stage, a lead is placed near the sacral nerve root and connected to a temporary stimulator. If the stimulator provides successful relief of symptoms, the permanent neurostimulator is placed in a subcutaneous pocket in the upper buttock.

Surgery for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

The goal of repair of pelvic organ prolapse is to restore normal function and anatomy of the pelvic floor and its organs. Repair of the defects that allow the pelvic organs to herniate can be accomplished using several different surgical techniques and approaches including laparoscopy and robotics. When compared to open, laparoscopic abdominal sacrocolpopexy has shown excellent results, with decreased lengths of hospital stay and postoperative pain and a quicker return to preoperative levels of activity.

Traditional repairs, either through a vaginal or abdominal approach, involve reapproximation of the patient’s own tissue. More repairs are now being accomplished with synthetic mesh and other biological materials to augment and increase the durability of the repair. The newest minimally invasive approach, which has been used in Europe for the past 2 years and is now available in the U.S., is the tension-free vaginal mesh. Soft prolene mesh is placed between the arcus tendinous and sacrospinal ligaments using needle introducers through the obturator foramen. Short-term data indicate high success rates and low complication rates.

Male Stress Incontinence

Male stress incontinence is caused by weakened urethral sphincter muscles. Pelvic trauma and pelvic surgery such as prostate surgery are the principal causes of male stress incontinence. For the past 2 decades, the artificial urinary sphincter has been the gold standard of treatment. It provides an excellent cure rate, even for severe incontinence, but can also be complicated by infection and erosion.

The male sling is a new minimally invasive alternative to the artificial urinary sphincter. It is used to treat mild to moderate stress incontinence. It is performed with a two-inch incision. A sling is formed by taking a piece of synthetic material and using it to compress the urethral sphincter, thus preventing urine leakage during stress maneuvers. The operation commonly takes less than an hour and can be performed in the outpatient setting.

Office Locations and Appointments

Clinical Academic Building
Room 4100
125 Patterson Street
New Brunswick, NJ 08901

One Worlds Fair Drive
1st Floor Surgery Suite
Somerset, NJ 08873

For Appointments: (732) 235-7775

The Vascular Laboratory at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital is one of the premier facilities in New Jersey. Accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC), we perform over 12,000 non-invasive vascular laboratory studies annually. Certified technologists employing state-of-the-art technology perform a broad array of studies under the supervision of the Faculty of the Division of Vascular Surgery at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

Justin W. Ady, MD, RPVI is the medical director of the non-invasive vascular laboratory and is a full-time faculty member of the Division of Vascular Surgery at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. All our physicians interpreting studies in the vascular lab are RPVI-certified, and all vascular technologists in the lab are RVT- or RVS-certified.

Vascular residents and fellows in the Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy are trained in the performance and interpretation of all vascular lab studies under the supervision of the Faculty.

The laboratory provides testing for all areas of arterial disease, carotid disease, intracranial disease, and venous disease. It is open seven days a week for both outpatient and inpatient studies. Emergency studies may be performed at the bedside of critically ill patients or those who cannot travel to the laboratory.

You can reach the Inpatient Vascular Laboratory at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital at  (732) 937-8635.

Outpatients can have their non-invasive vascular testing performed at either our inpatient vascular lab or more conveniently, our outpatient vascular laboratories located in Monroe Township. We provide convenient comprehensive testing services in a pleasant environment at this off-campus location. All testing is performed in conjunction with On-Site Cardiovascular Imaging (OCVI) and is interpreted by our faculty.

You can reach the Outpatient Vascular Laboratory at OCVI Imaging in Monroe Township at (609) 409-8300

The Division of Vascular Surgery has active research programs in both clinical and basic science. We have developed a clinical focus on surgical outcomes and the functional health of patients with vascular disease. The central objective of the basic science program is to provide an improved understanding of the important cell-cell and cell-biomaterial interactions within the vasculature.

Dr. Shaohua Li leads the basic science effort for the Division. We are interested in understanding the mechanisms that control the formation of organized tissue structures from embryonic stem (ES) cells and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells.

We are particularly interested in the extracellular cues, their cell surface receptors, and downstream signaling pathways in epithelial morphogenesis, vasculogenesis, and cardiogenesis. We use a combination of genetic, biochemical, and molecular cell biology approaches to dissect the complex interactions between these molecules in the model system of ES/iPS-derived embryoid bodies.

Epithelial morphogenesis. The formation of polarized epithelium is fundamental to embryonic development. During the peri-implantation stage, the undifferentiated inner cell mass of the blastocyst is converted from a non-polar cell aggregate to a highly organized epithelial cyst. This morphogenetic transformation involves the polarization and basement membrane-dependent survival of the epiblast epithelium.

Despite the fundamental importance of these processes, both to development and to epithelial biology, there is limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying these events. Thus, the goal of this project is to identify the extracellular cues and transmembrane cascades that regulate epiblast polarization and survival.

Using the embryoid body model system, we show that basement membrane formation directs the assembly of an adhesion complex, which serves as a signaling platform to regulate epiblast polarization and survival. We are currently analyzing the functions of the Rho family of small GTPases in epithelial morphogenesis.

Vasculogenesis. Vascular morphogenesis takes place via one of two processes: vasculogenesis, in which progenitor cells differentiate into endothelial cells that construct a nascent vascular network; and angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from existing vessels via sprouting and remodeling. Vasculogenesis mainly occurs during embryonic development but also in response to ischemic insults in adults.

ES cell differentiation has been used as a model to investigate the mechanisms of vasculogenesis and as a source of endothelial precursors for potential therapeutic vasculogenesis. A large body of evidence exists that demonstrates a role for growth factors and their receptors in endothelial cell specification, proliferation, and migration during vascular morphogenesis.

However, relatively little is known about the extracellular matrix associated with early endothelial precursors, and the receptors and intracellular signaling pathways that coordinate with growth factor-mediated signaling to control the vasculogenic process. The goal of this project is to elucidate the extracellular matrix-mediated signaling events that regulate the vasculogenic process during ES cell differentiation. Recently, we have found that cohesive cell aggregates expressing endothelial lineage markers can arise in differentiated embryoid bodies that form yolk sac-like structures.

These endothelial precursors are associated with a nascent basement membrane, which coordinates with vascular endothelial growth factor to activate Rho GTPases. Genetic analysis reveals Rho GTPases are required for vascular network assembly. Currently, we are investigating the upstream activators and downstream effectors of the small GTPases during vasculogenesis.

Cardiogenesis.  Heart failure due to myocardial infarction is the leading cause of mortality in developed nations. Given that adult cardiomyocytes have very limited ability to regenerate, the use of ES/iPS cell-derived cardiomyocytes to repair damaged hearts becomes a new therapeutic paradigm.

To generate a large number of cardiomyocytes at their appropriate differentiation stage for transplantation and to ensure their integration and maturation in the diseased heart, it is necessary to understand the mechanisms of cardiogenesis during embryonic development and ES/iPS cell differentiation. We have developed a model system in which ES cells are first differentiated into cystic embryoid bodies that contain both visceral and parietal endoderm as well as epiblast.

The inhibitory parietal endoderm is selectively removed and the remaining EBs are allowed to attach to a fibronectin substrate for further differentiation. We found that the formation of visceral endoderm significantly enhances cardiac differentiation. This effect is mediated by soluble factors secreted by visceral endoderm. We are currently examining the visceral endoderm-derived factor capable of promoting cardiogenesis from ES/iPS cells.

Our efforts have focused on two areas of vascular surgery which the Division has extensive expertise: aortic aneurysmal disease and carotid disease. Our vast experience in treating aneurysmal disease allows us to collect large volumes of data and compare our results with national trends.  Over the past several years we have participated in several industry-sponsored clinical trials evaluating new endovascular devices for treatment of aneurysms.

Our Division's ability to compare our large series with state and national databases will further assist in developing a greater understanding of the importance of aneurysmal disease, as well as potentially influencing health care policies.

Our research interests also include Health Services Research and Outcomes Research in all areas of vascular surgery. We have performed Outcomes Analysis on a variety of research studies:

• population-based studies of disease incidence and mortality
• patient-oriented research, such as quality-of-life studies
• evaluation of the quality of healthcare, including use (overuse and underuse) of various services, the impact of hospital/surgeon volume and regionalization of the more complex surgical procedures on results of surgical care, patient safety, and medical errors reduction
• small-area variations and trend-analysis in the use of surgical procedures
• evaluation of access to healthcare and estimation of its cost

Currently, we conduct research projects in some of the above areas with large cohorts of patients using data from large computerized administrative databases. These retrospective databases provide a large population-based sample of all surgical procedures and information on patient diagnoses and comorbidities, medical care received during admission, resource utilization (length of stay, total and detailed charges/cost), medical facility characteristics (location, ownership, teaching status), payers, etc.

Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) is the largest all-payer inpatient database in the US containing information on approximately 8 million hospital admissions each year at 1000 hospitals that is a 20% national sample. The State Inpatient Database (SID) and State Ambulatory Surgery Database (SASD) are the whole datasets that allow the analysis and comparison of surgical practices and outcomes in inpatient and outpatient settings in the state.

We are currently working on the design of projects based on the analysis of the Medicare data. These national data contain information about health services for the population aged 65 years and above, which is an important segment of the surgical population. The results of our analytical studies using administrative databases are valuable for hypothesis-generating information for evaluating surgical performance and improving surgical quality.

• National Institutes of Health 1R21CA201715-01: Regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and stem cell activity by PTEN in breast cancer  (PI: Shaohua Li, M.D.)
• American Heart Association Grant: CREG1 regulation of adherens junction assembly during cardiomyocyte differentiation of embryonic stem cells.  (PI: Shaohua Li, M.D.)
• Funding Agency: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (R24) Evaluating Vascular Interventions: Comparative Effectiveness and Readmission Consultant:  (PI: Viktor Dombrovskiy, MD, PhD)
• National Natural Science Foundation of China Key Program grant: 81130072/H0203 CREG modulation of cardiogenesis from iPS cells and iCM reprogramming  (Co-PI, PI: Y. Han)
• National Institutes of Health: R01GM081674 Regulation of embryonic epithelial morphogenesis  (PI: Shaohua Li, M.D.)  
• American Heart Association Grant-in-aid: 0755935T Role of CREG in vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype modulation  (PI: Shaohua Li, M.D.)
• New Jersey Stem Cell Research Grant: 07-2042-014-84 Regulation of vasculogenesis from embryonic stem cells (PI: Shaohua Li, M.D.)
• National Institutes of Health: R01GM081674-02S1 (special supplement to iPS cell research) Using induced pluripotent stem cells to study embryonic development (PI: Shaohua Li, M.D.)
• National Institutes of Health: R01NS038469 Laminin-induced membrane complexes in muscle and nerve.  (Co-investigator: Shaohua Li, M.D.)
• National Institutes of Health: R37DK036425 (MERIT award) Basement membrane self-assembly and structure.  (Co-investigator: Shaohua Li, M.D.)
• American Heart Association Lower Extremity Angioplasty: Impact of Obesity, Gender, and Ethnicity on Utilization and Outcomes  NCRP Clinical Research Program

• Comparison of EVAR and ESAR for Infrarenal Aortic Aneurysms With a Wide Proximal Neck (HERCULES) 
  • ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:  NCT03090230
• Post-Approval Study of the TREO Abdominal Stent-Graft System (TREO PAS)
  • ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:  NCT04697784
• Study of the Relay Pro® Thoracic Stent-Graft in Subjects With Traumatic Injury of the Descending Thoracic Aorta
  • ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03090230
• Study of the RelayPro Thoracic Stent-Graft in Subjects With an Acute, Complicated Type B Aortic Dissection
  • ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03033043

• Gore IBE 12-04: Evaluation of the GORE EXCLUDER Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis for the Treatment of Common Iliac Artery Aneurysms or Aorto-Iliac Aneurysms
• Zenith® Spiral-Z™ AAA Iliac Leg Graft study/registry (11-015-01) – Cook Medical
• CANOPY: Carotid Artery Stenting Outcomes in the Standard Risk Population for Carotid Endarterectomy  (Abbott Vascular)
  • Description: The purpose of the study is to assess the performance outcome (death and stroke rate) of the RX Acculink Carotid Stent System under commercial use by collecting long-term post-approval data in patients at standard risk for adverse events from carotid endarterectomy enrolled by a broad group of physicians.
• CHOICE: Carotid Stenting for High Surgical Risk Patients (Abbott Vascular)
  • Description: The purpose of this study is to provide additional information that that the commercially available Abbott Vascular Carotid Stent Systems can be used successfully by a wide range of physicians under commercial use conditions.
• Vascutek Anaconda Stent Graft System Phase II IDE Study (Vascutek)
  • Description: The purpose of this study is to test the safety and effectiveness of the ANACONDA Stent Graft System for infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms. The system is an investigational device that is being studied for its potential to repair aneurysms located in the abdominal aorta.
• Trivascular Ovation Study [Trivascular (now Endologix)]
  • Description: The purpose of this study is to test the safety and efficacy of a new low-profile endovascular aortic aneurysm repair stent graft.
• Medtronic Valiant Thoracic Stent Graft with the Captiva Delivery System (Medtronic)
  • Description: The purpose of this study is to test the safety and efficacy of a new thoracic endovascular stent graft for thoracic aneurysms.
• INNOVATION Trial (Cordis)
  • Description: A multicenter, prospective, non-randomized study of the CordisINCRAFT™ AAA stent graft system in subjects with abdominal aortic aneurysm, to assess the safety of a new stent graft system.

• Risk Factors for Surgical Site Infections After Lower Extremity Open Revascularization.
  • Na S, Mazzaferro N, Xia W, Greenberg P, Beckerman W.Ann Vasc Surg. 2022 Oct 29:S0890-5096(22)00627-6. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2022.09.052. Online ahead of print.PMID: 36404450
• Intraoperative Vascular Assistance: Essential to an Institution's Ability to Provide Surgical Care.
  • Soto C, Tarabey S, Hamilton C, Ciaramella MA, Malanowski A, Rahimi SA, Beckerman WE.Ann Vasc Surg. 2022 May;82:112-119. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2021.11.006. Epub 2021 Dec 10.PMID: 34896551
•  Late Open Repair of a Massive Common Iliac Artery Aneurysm after Endovascular Failure.
  • Vialonga M, Grieff AN, Beckerman WE.Ann Vasc Surg. 2022 Feb;79:443.e1-443.e4. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2021.08.021. Epub 2021 Oct 15.PMID: 34656712
• The Role of Physician-Directed Duplex after Brachial Plexus Block in Arteriovenous Fistula Creation.
  • Grieff AN, Lee K, Beckerman M, Akinsanya J, Rosen SF, Curtiss SI, Rahimi SA, Beckerman WE.Ann Vasc Surg. 2022 Sep 26:S0890-5096(22)00528-3. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2022.09.032. Online ahead of print.PMID: 36174916
• Initial Post-Operative Visit Absenteeism is Associated With Worse Amputation-Free Survival after Tibial Angioplasty.
  • Grieff AN, Syal S, Beckerman WE, Huang S.Ann Vasc Surg. 2022 Jul;83:284-289. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2021.11.025. Epub 2021 Dec 22.PMID: 34954033
• Concomitant Aorto-Caval Reconstruction for Inferior Vena Cava Leiomyosarcoma.
  • Grieff AN, Hamilton C, Ady J, Beckerman WE, Shafritz R, Koshenkov V, Rahimi S.Ann Vasc Surg. 2021 Jan;70:567.e13-567.e17. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2020.08.011. Epub 2020 Aug 12.PMID: 32795651
•  Prolonged recovery of acute kidney injury following AngioJet rheolytic thrombectomy.
  • Kennedy RE, Corsi T, Ventarola DJ, Rahimi SA, Beckerman WE.J Vasc Surg Cases Innov Tech. 2021 Feb 9;7(2):226-229. doi: 10.1016/j.jvscit.2021.01.002. eCollection 2021 Jun.PMID: 33997559 
• Anesthesia Type is Associated with Decreased Cranial Nerve Injury in Carotid Endarterectomy.
  • Grieff AN, Dombrovskiy V, Beckerman W, Ventarola D, Truong H, Huntress L, Rahimi S.Ann Vasc Surg. 2021 Jan;70:318-325. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2019.12.033. Epub 2020 Jan 7.PMID: 31917229
• Giant visceral artery pseudoaneurysm treated with endovascular transradial coil embolization.
  • Shan DK, Truong H, Tarabey S, Hamilton C, Rahimi SA, Beckerman WE.J Vasc Surg Cases Innov Tech. 2020 Sep 12;6(4):618-621. doi: 10.1016/j.jvscit.2020.09.003. eCollection 2020 Dec.PMID: 33163745 
•  Frailty is a Poor Predictor of Postoperative Morbidity and Mortality After Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm.
  • Ciaramella M, Kravchenko T, Grieff A, Huang S, Rahimi S, Beckerman W.Ann Vasc Surg. 2021 Jul;74:122-130. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2020.12.042. Epub 2021 Feb 5.PMID: 33549774
• PTEN suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cell activity by downregulating Abi1.
  • Qi Y, Liu J, Chao J, Scheuerman MP, Rahimi SA, Lee LY, Li S.Sci Rep. 2020 Jul 29;10(1):12685. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-69698-1.PMID: 32728066 
• Blunt Abdominal Aortic Dissection Treated by Endovascular Stent Placement.
  • NeMoyer R, Butts C, Beckerman W, To J.Am Surg. 2021 Jan;87(1):125-127. doi: 10.1177/0003134820943543. Epub 2020 Aug 26.PMID: 32845707 No abstract available.
• Extravascular reconstruction of a congenitally absent inferior vena cava.
  • Grieff AN, Shafritz R, Beckerman WE.J Vasc Surg Cases Innov Tech. 2020 Oct 19;6(4):681-685. doi: 10.1016/j.jvscit.2020.10.001. eCollection 2020 Dec.PMID: 33294753 Free PMC article.
• Parr M, Dombrovskiy VY, Nagarsheth KH, Shafritz R, Rahimi SA. Diabetes control decreases morbidity and mortality after carotid endarterectomy. Surgery 2018;163(2):404-408
• Vogel TR, Kruse RL, Kim RJ, Dombrovskiy VY. Racial and Socioeconomic Disparities after Carotid Procedures. Vasc Endovascular Surg 2018; 52(5):330-334
• Nassiri N, Crystal D, Huntress LA, Murphy S. Transcatheter embolization of persistent embryonic veins in venous malformation syndromes. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017 Sep;5(5):749-755
• Nassiri N, Crystal DT, Hoyt C, Shafritz R. Regarding the commentary for "Chronic refractory venous ulcer exacerbated by a congenital pelvic arteriovenous malformation successfully treated via transarterial Onyx embolization". J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017 Sep;5(5):772-773
• Rozenberg A, Danish T, Dombrovskiy VY, Vogel TR. Outcomes after Motor Vehicle Trauma: Transfers to Level 1 Trauma Centers Compared to Direct Admissions. The Journal of Emergency Medicine 2017; 53(3):295-301
• Patel AR, Dombrovskiy VY, Vogel TR. A Contemporary Evaluation of Carotid Endarterectomy Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease in the United States. Vascular 2017:25(5):459-465
• Nassiri N, Balica A, Cirillo-Penn NC, Crystal DT, Bachmann GA. An Academic Tertiary Referral Center's Experience with a Vascular Surgery-Based Uterine Artery Embolization Program. Ann Vasc Surg. 2018 May 17
• Huntress LA, Nassiri N. Covered Stent Treatment of a Chronically Thrombosed Popliteal Artery Aneurysm in the Setting of Critical Limb Ischemia following Multiple Failed Bypass Operations. Ann Vasc Surg. 2018
• Rahimi S, Nassiri N, Huntress L, Crystal D, Thomas J, Shafritz R. An Institution-Wide Algorithm for Treatment of Type II Endoleak Following Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR). Vasc Endovascular Surg. 2018 May;52(4):249-254
• Nassiri N, Huntress LA, Simon M, Murphy S. An institution-wide algorithm for direct-stick embolization of peripheral venous malformations J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2018 May;6(3):351-357
• Bateman DK, Bar-Eli HY, Rahimi SA, Bowe JA. Post-traumatic pseudoaneurysm of brachial artery in multiple hereditary exostoses. BMJ Case Rep. 2018 Jun 27;2018. pii: bcr-2018-224353. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2018-224353.
• Nassiri N, Huntress LA. Stent-Assisted Coil Embolization of a Symptomatic Renal Artery Aneurysm at a Bifurcation Point. Ann Vasc Surg. 2017 Mar 7. pii: S0890-5096(17)30335-7.
• Nassiri N, Cirillo-Penn NC, Crystal DT. Direct stick embolization of extremity arteriovenous malformations with ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer. J Vasc Surg. 2017; 65(4):1223-1228.
• Huntress LA, Nassiri N, Shafritz R, Rahimi SA. Transcervical Carotid Stent Placement in the Setting of a Hostile Neck and a Type III Aortic Arch. Vasc Endovascular Surg. 2017
• Rahimi SA, Dombrovskiy VY, Ventarola D, Nagarsheth KH. Anterior Lumbar Exposure in Obese Patients and Outcomes. J Vasc Surg 2017;66(6, Suppl.):156S
• Nagarsheth KH, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA. Elective Revascularization for Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia Results in Lower Health Care Costs and Lower Mortality Compared to Emergent Revascularization. J Vasc Surg 2017;66(6, Suppl):119S-120S
• Huntress LA, Kogan S, Nagarsheth K, Nassiri N. Palliative Endovascular Techniques for Management of Peripheral Vascular Blowout Syndrome in End-Stage Malignancies. Vasc Endovascular Surg. 2017 Aug;51(6):394-399. doi: 10.1177/1538574417710600. Epub 2017 May 23. PMID: 28535730
• Nagarsheth KH, Rosh AJ, Lopez Rowe, V. (2017, August 21). Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/463256-treatment; Medscape, 2017.
• Vogel TR, Dombrovskiy VY, Kim RJ, Kruse RL. Socioeconomic Disparities and Outcomes After Carotid Revascularization. J Vasc Surg 2017; 66(2):e35.
• Nassiri N, Crystal DT, Hoyt C, Shafritz R. Regarding the commentary for "Chronic refractory venous ulcer exacerbated by a congenital pelvic arteriovenous malformation successfully treated via transarterial Onyx embolization". J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017 Sep;5(5):772-773. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2017.04.016. No abstract available. PMID: 28818237
• Nassiri N, Crystal D, Huntress LA, Murphy S. Transcatheter embolization of persistent embryonic veins in venous malformation syndromes. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017 Sep;5(5):749-755. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2017.05.016. PMID: 28818233
• Patel AR, Dombrovskiy VY, Vogel TR. A Contemporary Evaluation of Carotid Endarterectomy Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease in the United States. Vascular 2017:25(5):459-465
• Biggs JH, Kim RJ, Dombrovskiy VY, Kruse RL, Vogel TR. The Association of Renal Disease and Readmission after Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair in the Medicare Population. J Am Coll Surg 2017;225(4S1):S223
• Nagarsheth KH, T Huong, Nassiri N, Shafritz R, Rahimi S. Independent Predictors of Site Infection Following Saphenous Vein Ablation. JVIR. 2016;27(2):e1-e2
• Nassiri N, Jones T, Cirilo-Penn N. Evidence Summary: Evaluation and Management of Congenital Peripheral Venous and Lymphatic Malformations. J Vasc Surg; Venous & Lymhpatic Disord. 2016; 4(2): 257-65.
• Nassiri N & Cirillo-Penn N. Peripheral Vascular Anomalies in the Pediatric Population. New Jersey Pediatrics. 2016; ISSN 2375-477X; 6-12.
• KH Nagarsheth. “Endovascular Management of Vascular Trauma” Vascular Surgery 2016. ISBN: 978-1-944685-58-4. http://www.smgebooks.com/vascular-surgery/chapters/VS-15-02.pdf
• Nassiri N, Jones T, Cirilo-Penn N. Evidence Summary: Evaluation and Management of Congenital Peripheral Venous and Lymphatic Malformations. J Vasc Surg; Venous & Lymhpatic Disord. 2016; 4(2): 257-6
• Nassiri N, Cirillo-Penn N. Peripheral Vascular Anomalies in the Pediatric Population. New Jersey Pediatrics. 2016; ISSN 2375-477X; 6-12.
• Tremont JP, Cha A, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA. Endovascular Repair for Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms has Improved Outcomes Compared to Open Surgical Repair. Vasc Endovascular Surg 2016;50(3):147-155
• Kray JE, Dombrovskiy VY, Vogel TR. Carotid artery dissection and motor vehicle trauma: patient demographics, associated injuries and impact of treatment on cost and length of stay. BMC Emerg Med 2016 Jul 8;16(1):23 doi: 10.1186/s12873-016-0088-z. Available at: http://bmcemergmed.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12873-016-0088-z
• Liu J, Qi Y, Li S, Hsu SC, Saadat S, Hsu J, Rahimi S, Lee L, Yan C, Tian X, Han Y. CREG1 interacts with Sec8 to promote cardiomyogenic differentiation and cell-cell adhesion. Stem Cells 2016
• Nassiri N, Shafritz R, Rahimi S, Patel PB, Araujo L, Thomas J. Left renal vein balloon venoplaty without stenting for management of symptomatic Nutcracker Syndrome. Clinics in Surgery. 2016: 1: 1157.
• Nassiri N, Kogan S, Truong H, Nagasheth KJ, Shafritz R, Rahimi S. Surgical repair of a Snuffbox radial artery pseudoaneurysm. Clinics in Surgery. 2016; 1: 1154.

• Cirillo-Penn N, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA, Nagarsheth KH. Emergent Endovascular Revascularization of Acute on Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia Lowers Mortality. Presented at the 13th Annual Academic Surgical Congress (Oral presentation). January 30-February 1, 2018, Jacksonville, FL. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings.
• Ady J, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA, Nagarsheth KH. Patients with Critical Limb Ischemia on Dialysis Have Worse Outcomes After Lower Extremity Revascularization. Presented at the 46th SCVS Annual Symposium (Poster presentation). March 17-21, 2018, Las Vegas, NE. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings.
• Grieff A, Dombrovskiy V, Shafritz R, Huang S, Nagarsheth K, Rahimi S. Regional anesthesia for carotid endarterectomy protects against cranial nerve injury. Presented at the SVS 2018 Vascular Annual Meeting (Poster presentation). June 20-23, 2018, Boston, MA. Abstract in the J Vasc Surg 2018;67(6):e114.
• Ady J, Dombrovskiy V, Shafritz R, Rahimi S. Rising incidence of femoral pseudoaneurysm after cardiac catheterization results in significant increases in hospital cost and length of stay. Presented at the SVS 2018 Vascular Annual Meeting (Poster presentation). June 20-23, 2018, Boston, MA. Abstract in the J Vasc Surg 2018;67(6):e196.
• Rahimi, SA. Approach and Techniques for treating Type II endoleaks; VAST3 Annual Meeting 2017 Meeting, Saratoga Springs, NY, August 4, 2017
• Vogel TR, Dombrovskiy VD, Kim RJ, Kruse RL. Socioeconomic Disparities and Outcomes after Carotid Revascularization. Presented at the 41^st Annual Meeting, Midwestern Vascular Surgical Society (Oral presentation). September 7-9, 2017, Chicago, IL. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings.
• Sudah S, Nagarsheth KH. (2017, October). Extensive Intramural Aortic Hematoma: A Rare Complication Following Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Presented at the Eastern Vascular Society 31st Annual Meeting, Savannah, GA. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings. October 5-8, 2017
• Truong H, Dombrovskiy VY, Nagarsheth KH, Shafritz R, Rahimi SA. The Effect of Glycemic Control on Outcomes after Carotid Artery Stenting. Presented at the Eastern Vascular Society 31st Annual Meeting (Poster presentation)., Savannah, GA. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings. October 5-8, 2017
• Truong H, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA, Nagarsheth KH. Elective Revascularization for Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia Results in Lower Healthcare Cost and Lower Mortality Compared to Emergent Revascularization. Presented at the Eastern Vascular Society 31st
• Annual Meeting (Poster presentation)., Savannah, GA. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings. October 5-8, 2017
• Nagarsheth KH. Best Strategies to Manage In-Stent Restenosis. 4th Annual Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention Symposium; Staten Island, NY October 13, 2017
• Nagarsheth KH. Endovascular Management of Peripheral Vascular Disease. RWJBarnabas Health 14th Annual Innovations and Trends in Cardiovascular Care Symposium; New Brunswick, NJ October 14, 2017
• Biggs JH, Dombrovskiy VY, Vogel TR. The Association of Renal Disease and Readmission after Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair in the Medicare Population. Presented at the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress (Oral presentation)., San Diego, CA. October 22-26, 2017
• Ventarola DJ, Rahimi SA, “Hybrid Approach to Thoracic Endoleak: Combining Aortic Debranching with Thoracic Endografting”; American College of Surgeons NJ Chapter - 66th Annual Clinical Symposium, Woodbridge, NJ. December 02, 2017
• Rahimi SA. “Is There Still Need for Open Aortic Surgery”. American College of Surgeons NJ Chapter - 66th Annual Clinical Symposium, Woodbridge, NJ. December 02, 2017
• Cirillo-Penn N, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA, Nagarsheth KH. Emergent Endovascular Revascularization of Acute on Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia Lowers Mortality. Presented at the 13th Annual Academic Surgical Congress (Oral presentation). January 30-February 1, 2018, Jacksonville, FL. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings
• Ventarola D, Truong H, Nagarsheth KH. Uncommon Presentation of External Iliac Vein Transection After Total Hip Arthoplasty. Vascular Society of New Jersey Annual Spring Meeting, Belleville, NJ, March 08, 2017
• Nagarsheth KH. Invited discussant: Risk Factors and Clinical Significance of Postoperative Renal Replacement Therapy Following Endovascular or Open Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair. Southeastern Surgical Congress; Nashville, TN. February 25-28, 2017
• Nagarsheth KH. Lead moderator: Vascular poster session. Southeastern Surgical Congress; Nashville, TN. February 25-28, 2017
• Parr M, Dombrovskiy VY, Nagarsheth KH, Shafritz R, Rahimi SA. (2017, February) Uncontrolled Diabetes Increases Morbidity and Mortality After Carotid Endarterectomy. Presented at the the12th Annual Surgical Congress (Oral presentation). February 7-9, 2017, Las Vegas, NV. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings.
• Ventarola D, Truong H, Nagarsheth KH. Uncommon Presentation of External Iliac Vein Transection After Total Hip Arthoplasty. 29th Annual International Symposium on Endovascular Therapy. Hollywood, FL. February 4-8, 2017
• Truong H, Nagarsheth KH. External Iliac Vein Transection Mimicking Phlegmasia Cerulea Dolans After Total Hip Arthroplasty. 29th Annual American Venous Forum. New Orleans, LA. February 14-17, 2017
• Zomaya M, Nagarsheth KH, Rahimi SA. Endovascular Repair of Innominate Artery Anastomotic Pseudoaneurysm. Southeastern Surgeical Congress. Nashville, TN. February 25-28, 2017
• Nagarsheth KH, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA. Insurance, Race and Region-Related Disparities in Mortality from Vascular Injury Following Abdominal Gunshot Wounds. Presented at the SCVS 45th Annual Symposium (Poster presentation). March 18-22, 2017, Lake Buena Vista, FL. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings.
• Sudah, K.H. Nagarsheth; Extensive Intramural Aortic Hematoma: A Rare Complication Following Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation; Podium presentation at Vascular Society of New Jersey Annual Spring Meeting, Belleville, NJ, March 08, 2017
• Nagarsheth, KJ; Debate: Limb Salvage versus Primary Amputation in Non-Ambulatory Patients with Tissue Loss/Primary Amputation; Vascular Society of New Jersey Annual Spring Meeting, Belleville, NJ, March 08, 2017
• Truong, H; Elective revascularization for chronic mesenteric ischemia results in lower healthcare costs and lower mortality compared to emergent revascularization. Presented at the 33rd Annual Vascular Fellows Abstract Presentation, University Club, New York, NY; May 04, 2017.
• Rahimi, SA; Symptomatic Carotid Disease; Grand Rounds, RWJUH Somerset Campus, Somerville, NJ; May 15, 2017
• Truong H, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA, Nagarsheth KH. Elective Revascularization for Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia Results in Superior Survival Compared to Emergency Revascularization. Presented at the 9thAnnual Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Resident Research Day (Oral presentation). May 31, 2017, New Brunswick, NJ
• Ventarola DJ , Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA. Anterior Lumbar Exposure: Differential Outcomes in the Obese Cohort. Presented at the 9thAnnual Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Resident Research Day (Poster presentation). May 31, 2017, New Brunswick, NJ
• Nagarsheth KH, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA. Elective Revascularization for Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia Results in Lower Health Care Costs and Lower Mortality Compared to Emergent Revascularization. Presented at the SVS 2017 Vascular Annual Meeting (Poster presentation). June 1-3, 2017, San Diego, CA.
• Ventarola D, Dombrovskiy VY, Nagarsheth KH, Rahimi SA. Anterior Lumbar Exposure in Obese Patients and Outcomes. Presented at the SVS 2017 Vascular Annual Meeting (Poster presentation). June 1-3, 2017, San Diego, CA.
• Nagarsheth KH, T Huong, Nassiri N, Shafritz R, Rahimi S. Independent Predictors of Site Infection Following Saphenous Vein Ablation. 28th Annual International Symposium on Endovascular Therapy. Hollywood, FL. February 5-8, 2016
• Nagarsheth KH, Zomaya M, Nassiri R, Shafritz R, Rahimi S. Independent Predictors of Venous Thromboembolism Following Pancreatic Necrosectomy. Southeastern Surgical Congress. Atlanta, GA. February 20-23, 2016
• Aparajita R, Nagarsheth KH, Ranev D, Zia S, Schor J, Singh K, Deitch J. Blunt Abdominal Aortic Injury and Traumatic Abdominal Wall Hernia Following Motor Vehicle Collision. Southeastern Surgical Congress. Atlanta, GA. February 20-23, 2016
• Nagarsheth KH, Nassiri R, Shafritz R, Rahimi S. Independent Predictors of Venous Thromboembolism Following Total Hip Arthroplasty. 28th Annual meeting of the American Venous Forum. Orlando, FL. February 24-26, 2016
• Jinwala F, Oh J, Dombrovskiy V, Nagarsheth KJ, Rahimi SA. Regional Anesthesia is Associated with Decreased Post-operative Hypertension in Patients Undergoing Eversion Carotid Endarterectomy, Presented at NJ Vascular Society, Belleville, NJ, March 9, 2016
• Nagarsheth KJ, Schor J, Rahimi S, Deitch J. Advanced Age Portends Poor Outcomes After Carotid Endarterectomy; Presented at the 44th Annual Symposium of the Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery March 12-16, 2016, Las Vegas, NV.
• Nassiri N. Left renal venoplasty and left gonadal vein coil embolization for management of symptomatic Nutcracker Syndrome. Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery (SCVS) Challenging Cases Forum. Presented at the 44th Annual Symposium of the Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery March 12-16, 2016, Las Vegas, NV.
• Qato K, Conway A, Giangola G, Nassiri N, Carroccio A. Asymptomatic isolated femoropopliteal stents with in-stent restenosis: is intervention warranted. Presented at the 44th Annual Symposium of the Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery March 12-16, 2016, Las Vegas, NV
• Cirillo-Penn N, Kogan S, Murphy S, Simon M, Nassiri N. Misconceptions and Misdiagnoses in Evaluation and Management of Peripheral Vascular Malformations: A Pictorial Essay. Presented at the 44th Annual Symposium of the Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery March 12-16, 2016, Las Vegas, NV
• Pepe R, Patel P, Nagarsheth K, Shafritz R, Rahimi S, Nassiri N. Endovascular Reconstruction for Chronic Infrarenal Aortic Occlusion (CIAO). Presented at the 44th Annual Symposium of the Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery March 12-16, 2016, Las Vegas, NV
• Rahimi S, Nassiri N, Huntress L, Thomas J, Shafritz R. An Institution-wide algorithm for Treatment of Type II Endoleak Following Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR). Presented at the 44th Annual Symposium of the Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery March 12-16, 2016, Las Vegas, NV
• Kray JE, Dombrovskiy VY, Vogel TR. National Outcomes of Prosthetic Distal Bypass With and Without Use of a Distal Anastomotic Vein Cuff. Presented at the 44th Annual Symposium of the Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery (E-poster). March 12-16, 2016, Las Vegas, NV.
• Patel A, Kim RJ, Dombrovskiy VY, Vogel TR. A Contemporary Evaluation of Carotid Endarterectomy Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease in the United States. Presented at the 44th Annual Symposium of the Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery (Oral presentation). March 12-16, 2016, Las Vegas, NV.
• Kray JE, Dombrovskiy VY, Vogel TR. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors (ACEI) and Freedom from Amputation after Lower Extremity Revascularization. Presented at the 44th Annual Symposium of the Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery (Oral presentation). March 12-16, 2016, Las Vegas, NV.
• Jinwala FT, Nagarsheth KJ, Rahimi SA. The Use of Thrombolysis and Endovascular Therapy to Increase the Secondary Patency of an Axillofemoral Bypass; Presented at Diabetic Limb Salvage 2016, Washington, DC, March 31-April 2, 2016
• Nagarsheth KH, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA. Triggers for Venous Thromboembolism Following Total Abdominal Colectomy for Fulminant Clostridium difficile Infection. Presented at the 7th Annual Venous Symposium (Poster presentation). April 14-16, 2016, New York, NY. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings.
• Nassiri N, Huntress L, Vagaonescu T, Chiricolo A, Nagarsheth KH, Shafritz R, Rahimi S. Selective pulmonary artery thrombolysis for treatment of acute submassive pulmonary embolism: a simple technique in the era of rapidly advancing catheter technology. New York Venous Symposium. NYC, NY. April 14-16, 2016
• Nassiri N, Pepe R, Shafritz R, Rahimi S. Left renal venoplasty without stenting for management of symptomatic Nutcracker Syndrome. New York Venous Symposium. NYC, NY. April 14-16, 2016
• Huntress L, Jones T, Rahimi S, Nassiri N. Fibrodysplastic Implications for Transvenous Embolization of a high-flow pelvic AVM in Osler-Weber-Rendu Syndrome. International Society for Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA). Buenos Aires, Argentina. April 27, 2016.
• Nassiri N. Active ISSVA Member #517. Represented VAMP @ Rutgers RWJ & BMSCH as an ISSVA-designated center of excellence for treatment of vascular anomalies & malformations at the ISSVA Members-Only General Assembly @ the 2016 21st International Workshop on Vascular Anomalies, Buenos Aires, Argentina. April 27, 2016.
• Shafritz R. Keynote Speaker at the Society of Vascular Ultrasound, “Venous Disease and the Vascular Lab”, Hackensack University Hospital, North Jersey Vascular Association, Annual Meeting, April 30, 2016
• Jinwala FN, Oh J, Dombrovskiy VY, Nagarsheth KH, Rahimi SA. Regional anesthesia is associated with decreased postoperative hypertension in patients undergoing eversion carotid endarterectomy. Presented at the 8th Annual Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Resident Research Day (Oral presentation). June 1, 2016, New Brunswick, NJ.
• Nagarsheth KH, Huong T, Nassiri N, Shafritz R, Rahimi S. Independent Predictors of Site Infection Following Saphenous Vein Ablation; Presented at the 8th Annual Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Resident Research Day (Poster presentation). June 1, 2016, New Brunswick, NJ.
• Jinwala FN, Oh J, Dombrovskiy V, Nagarsheth KH, Rahimi SA. Regional Anesthesia is Associated with Decreased Post-Operative Hypertension in Patients Undergoing Eversion Carotid Endarterectomy. Presented at the 2016 Annual Meeting Society for Vascular Surgery, National Harbor, MD, June 8-11, 2016
• Nagarsheth KH, Nassiri N, Shafritz S, Rahimi S. Delayed Revascularization for Acute Lower Extremity Ischemia Leads to Increased Mortality. Presented at the 2016 Annual Meeting Society for Vascular Surgery, National Harbor, MD, June 8-11, 2016
• Shafritz. R. Monmouth Wound Care Symposium. Lecture. "Proper evaluation of the lower extremity in the wound care center" Neptune, NJ, June 8, 2016
• Nassiri N. Penumbra Indigo Suction Thromboembolectomy for Management of Acute Symptomatic Pulmonary Embolism. Northwell Health PERT Meeting. June 2016. Melville, NY
• Nassiri N. Selective pulmonary artery thrombolysis for management of rapidly deteriorating submassive pulmonary embolism. Complex Cardiovascular Catheter Therapeutics (C3). Faculty Speaker. Orlando, Fl. June 30, 2016.
• Kim RJ, Dombrovskiy VY, Vogel TR. The impact of renal disease on outcomes of acute lower extremity ischemia. Presented at the 40th Annual Meeting, Midwestern Vascular Surgical Society (Poster presentation). September 8-10, 2016, Columbus, OH. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings.
• Nagarsheth KH, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA, Vogel TR. Increased Mortality for Endovascular Aorto-Uniiliac Repair for Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm. Presented at the Eastern Vascular Society 30th Annual Meeting (Poster presentation). September 15-17, 2016, Philadelphia, PA. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings.
• Nagarsheth KH, Dombrovskiy VY, Rahimi SA. Increased Mortality Associated with Subclavian to Carotid Artery Transposition for Left Subclavian Artery Revascularization During Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair. Presented at the Eastern Vascular Society 30th Annual Meeting (Oral presentation). September 15-17, 2016, Philadelphia, PA. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings.
• Jinwala FN, Oh J, Dombrovskiy VY, Nagarsheth KH, Rahimi SA. Regional anesthesia is associated with decreased postoperative hypertension in patients undergoing eversion carotid endarterectomy. Presented at the Eastern Vascular Society 30th Annual Meeting (Poster presentation). September 15-17, 2016, Philadelphia, PA. Abstract in the Meeting Proceedings.
• Nassiri N, Huntress L.  Eastern Vascular Society Award for first place case presentation: Stent-assisted coil embolization of a symptomatic renal artery aneurysm at a bifurcation point. Presented at the Eastern Vascular Society 30th Annual Meeting (Poster presentation). September 15-17, 2016, Philadelphia, PA.
• Rahimi, SA, Does the endovascular approach have a role in managing patients with aortic infection?, VIVA16, Las Vegas, NV; September 18, 2016
• Rahimi, SA, Type 2 Endoleaks Diagnosis and Intervention, Imaging and Techniques that Matter Most; VIVA16, Las Vegas, NV; September 18, 2016
• Ventarola DJ, Rahimi SA, Nagarsheth KJ . Hybrid Approach to Limb Salvage: Combining Axillofemoral Bypass with Endovascular Stenting. Fourth Annual Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention Symposium (LEAPS) - Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island, NY, October 14, 2016
• Nagarsheth KJ, "Percutaneous Management of Peripheral Arterial Disease", 13th Annual Innovations and Trends in Cardiovascular Care Symposium; New Brunswick, NJ, October 01, 2016
• Ventarola DJ, Rahimi SA, Nagarsheth KJ . Hybrid Approach to Limb Salvage: Combining Axillofemoral Bypass with Endovascular Stenting. New Jersey Vascular Society Annual Meeting, October 2016.
• Nagarsheth KJ, "Conservative Management of Intermittent Claudication", Fourth Annual Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention Symposium (LEAPS) - Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island, NY, October 14, 2016