MGCI-Breast-Cancer

If you have been diagnosed, we're here to help.

We know having physicians by your side who truly care about your well-being makes for better outcomes. And that’s exactly what you’ll find with our Washington, D.C., area breast cancer team. Our dedicated specialists provide compassionate support, from treatment through survivorship.

Our team is also renowned for offering some of the most innovative treatment options available. We are proud to be national leaders for nipple-sparing mastectomy, targeted radiation therapies, advanced reconstruction, opioid-free anesthesia techniques, and in clinical trials offering cutting edge treatments including new and more tailored medications.

If you haven't been diagnosed and are looking to learn more about breast cancer, click here.

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202-295-0513,

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Research-driven care through MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute.

Anna Choi_Radiology_Breast Cancer Scans_MWHC_Washington_Breast_Care

Our Washington, D.C., region breast oncology team is part of MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute, giving you access to leading expertise and the most up-to-date technology and treatments, including clinical trials. Our research engine is Georgetown University's Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in Washington, D.C. Together, we’re able to bring you research-driven, evidence-based care that helps achieve the best outcomes possible.

Every patient is unique, and so is their cancer. That’s why you’ll meet with an experienced team of multidisciplinary experts who will collaborate to create a customized care plan just for you. It’s the kind of dedicated and passionate care we’d want for our own family members.

Meet our physicians

Breast Oncologists
Claudine Isaacs, MD
Cancer Genetics, Breast Medical Oncology

Claudine Isaacs, MD

Dr. Claudine Isaacs is a medical oncologist who specializes in the care of women with all stages of breast cancer. She is Professor of Medicine and Oncology, Associate Director of Clinical Research and Leader of the Clinical Breast Cancer Program at the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center (LCCC) at Georgetown University. She is also the Medical Director of the Jess and Mildred Fisher Center for Hereditary Cancer and Clinical Genomics Research. She has been practicing for over 20 years.

Dr. Isaacs received her medical degree and internal medicine residency training at McGill University, Canada. She completed fellowship training in the Division of Hematology and Oncology at McGill University and a Fellowship in Breast Medical Oncology in the Division of Medical Oncology at Georgetown University. She then joined the faculty in the Department of Medicine and Oncology at Georgetown University.

Dr. Isaacs has extensive experience in the conduct of clinical trials focusing on all aspects of breast cancer. Additional research interests include cancer risk assessment and medical management and prevention strategies for women at high risk for breast cancer. She has served as the principal investigator of a variety of clinical trials in the treatment of early-stage and metastatic breast cancer, and currently serves as the principal investigator of the Translational Breast Cancer Research Consortium (TBCRC), the ISPY2 trial at Georgetown University. She has authored over 200 peer reviewed publications. She has also served on a number of committees, including the Cancer Education Committee at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the ASCO Scientific Program Committee, the Breast Oncology Local Diseases Task Force of the Breast Steering Committee of the National Cancer Institute, and most recently the ASCO guidelines committee. She has been named one of America's Top Cancer Doctors by Castle Connolly/Newsweek for many years running, and has also received designations from Washingtonian Magazine and Women's Health Magazine.

Philosophy of Care:
"I strive to personalize the care of my patients by tailoring state-of-the-art therapy to their individual situations and by providing them with access to cutting-edge clinical trials. Equally important is that the care of my patients extends well beyond focusing just on the optimal therapy of their cancer. My approach to care is to relate to each of my patients as individuals in the context of their lives, and not solely based on the characteristics of their disease. To that end, I work with a wonderful and dedicated multidisciplinary group of expert colleagues who are deeply committed to and involved with our patients' care. The whole team is focused solely on breast cancer and includes medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, breast imagers and pathologists who are supported by an experienced team of clinical nurse coordinators, nurse navigators, research nurses, genetic counselors and social workers, all championing a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery. We are not treating a disease. We are treating a person and we are here to provide state-of-the-art medical treatment and to accompany that person navigates their cancer journey."

Education:
Fellowship: MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Fellowship: McGill University
Internship/Residency: Montreal General Hospital
Residency: McGill University
Internship: Montreal General Hospital
Medical School: McGill University

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology

Awards:

America’s Top Doctors for Women, Women’s Health Magazine

Marquis Who’s Who in America

America’s Top Doctors, Castle Connolly

Newsweek’s Top Cancer Doctors

Top Doctors Washington DC, Washingtonian Magazine

Global Directory Top Doctors

Global Directory of Who’s Who

Top Doctors Washington DC Area, Northern Virginia Magazine

Estelle Ramey Mentorship Award, Georgetown University School of Medicine
Ami A. Chitalia, MD
Medical Oncology

Ami A. Chitalia, MD

Ami Chitalia, MD, is board certified in Internal Medicine as well as Hospice and Palliative medicine. Additionally, she is board certified in Medical Oncology and Hematology and a member of the American Society of Hematology and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. As a hematologist and medical oncologist, Dr. Chitalia focuses on the treatment of breast cancer through the use of chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, and targeted novel therapies through clinical trials. She also specializes in symptom management and setting goals of care as they pertain to patients with an advanced or complicated diagnoses.

Each day, more research points to stepping away from chemotherapy and using novel, targeted agents to fight breast cancer. These therapies are among Dr. Chitalia’s clinical interests, as is the incorporation of her palliative care training to her oncology practice. Her research interests include curriculum development for trainees focused on palliative care as it pertains to the field of oncology. Additionally, Dr. Chitalia is passionate about studying health disparities related to breast cancer treatment.

Dr. Chitalia received her medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine. She then joined MedStar Georgetown University Hospital for residency in Internal Medicine before completing a one-year fellowship in Hospice and Palliative medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital. Dr. Chitalia then returned to Medstar Georgetown University Hospital to complete a three-year fellowship in Medical Oncology and Hematology. She is now a staff physician at the affiliated Medstar Washington Cancer Institute.

Philosophy of Care:
“My goal in taking care of patients is to treat the patient as a whole, addressing not just their breast cancer but also trying to focus on symptom management, and the psychosocial and emotional aspects of their treatment. In order to be able to address all of the patient’s needs, I take the time to listen and make sure I know what the patient hopes to accomplish.

“I provide clear explanations regarding the diagnosis and treatment recommendations, allowing each patient to make informed decisions regarding his or her care. When appropriate, I educate my patients on available and relevant clinical trials, as participating in them opens up additional treatment options for the patient.”

Education:
Fellowship: MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Fellowship: Mount Sinai Medical Center
Residency: MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Internal Medicine, Hematology
American Board of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology
American Board of Internal Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine

Behzad Doratotaj, MD
Hematology Oncology

Behzad Doratotaj, MD

Education:
Fellowship: New York University
Fellowship: Abington Memorial Hospital
Internship/Residency: Drexel University Hahnemann University Hospital
Medical School: Tehran University Medical School

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Internal Medicine, Hematology
American Board of Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology
Miriam Jacobs, MD
Hematology Oncology

Marc E. Lippman, MD
Breast Medical Oncology

Marc E. Lippman, MD

Medical oncologist who specializes entirely in breast cancer.

Education:
Fellowship: Yale New Haven Hospital
Residency: Johns Hopkins Hospital
Internship: Johns Hopkins Hospital
Medical School: Yale University Primary Care

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology Diabetes and Metabolism
American Board of Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology
Candace Mainor, MD
Breast Medical Oncology

Candace Mainor, MD

Dr. Mainor is a fellowship-trained, board-certified medical oncologist. She specializes in diagnosing and treating breast cancer (early stage and metastatic), breast cancer prevention, and clinical trials. Dr. Mainor’s research focuses on developing novel therapies for breast cancer and health care disparities. In addition, she is also focusing some of her research on exploring therapeutics which may help to decrease cancer-treatment-related toxicity.

Dr. Mainor’s main areas of clinical expertise include:

Breast cancer (early stage and metastatic)

Breast cancer prevention

Clinical trials

Education:
Fellowship: University of Maryland Medical Center
Residency: University of Maryland Medical Center
Medical School: University of Maryland Medical School
Joyce M. Slingerland, MD, PhD
Breast Medical Oncology

Joyce M. Slingerland, MD, PhD

A renowned physician scientist, Joyce Slingerland, MD, PhD, is a fellowship-trained, board-certified medical oncologist who specializes in breast cancer. She co-leads the breast cancer program at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and serves as a professor of oncology at Georgetown University.

At MedStar Georgetown, Dr. Slingerland specializes in treating all types of breast cancer, including:

Hormone-receptor positive breast cancer

Triple negative breast cancer

HER2 positive breast cancer

She combines her research expertise in the molecular biology of breast cancer with focused dedication to caring for each of her patients to drive positive outcomes for people with breast cancer. She has a particular interest in helping her patients make lifestyle changes to improve their outcomes, including using diet and exercise to “turn off the cancer switch.”

Dr. Slingerland earned her MD and a PhD in medical biophysics at the University of Toronto, Canada, where she also completed residency training in internal medicine. She went on to complete a fellowship in medical oncology and postdoctoral fellowships in molecular and medical genetics at the University of Toronto and molecular biology at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, CA. After spending a decade at the University of Toronto as a clinician investigator devoted to breast cancer research and care, Dr. Slingerland moved to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where she became the first Director of the Braman Breast Cancer Institute.

Dr. Slingerland is a leader in breast cancer research. She discovered an important cell cycle inhibitor, p27, and her lab has shown that targeted therapies can reverse p27’s deregulation in cancers. Her current research projects investigate breast cancer stem cells and how obesity stimulates those cancer stem cells in ways that contribute to an increased risk of breast cancer and worse breast cancer outcomes. The results of her work are supporting new interventions that promote weight loss and exercise in cancer survivors.

As a leader in the breast cancer program, Dr. Slingerland oversees breast cancer clinical research, including:

Investigating intracellular pathways that increase breast cancer tumor growth

Studying the role of circulating breast cancer tumor cells

Looking at ways cancer cells interact with their microenvironment

Understanding the environmental factors that influence breast cancer risk and outcomes, including obesity, diabetes, inflammatory illnesses, exercise, and environmental toxins

Philosophy of Care:
“Breast cancer is a terrifying diagnosis for a lot of women, but I want my patients to know that most people survive breast cancer. We know a lot about breast cancer, and as a result, we have many treatment options available. I give my patients plenty of information about their cancer, their body, and their treatment options, so that they can make a good decision about their individualized care. I want my patients to feel confident that they are making an informed decision, and I want them to know that they can call on me at any time to get the help they need.

As a researcher and as a clinician, I am very interested in making use of the many lifestyle changes that can modify outcomes for people with breast cancer. I work with my patients to understand the role of diet and exercise in managing breast cancer.

MedStar Georgetown has access to the best treatment options on the planet, and as a field, breast cancer care has come a long way. I am optimistic that the work we’re doing, both in the lab and in the clinic, will help not only treat but prevent cancer.”

Education:
Fellowship: Princess Margaret Hospital
Residency: The Wellesley Hospital University of Toronto
Fellowship: Princess Margaret Hospital
Residency: Toronto General Hospital
Internship: Toronto General Hospital
Medical School: University of Toronto

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
Elaine M. Walsh, MD, MBBCH, BAO, PhD
Hematology Oncology

Elaine M. Walsh, MD, MBBCH, BAO, PhD

Elaine Walsh, MB, BCh, PhD, is a fellowship-trained medical oncologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of people with breast cancer. Before joining MedStar Health, Dr. Walsh worked in the Breast Medical Oncology Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Walsh is an assistant professor at the Department of Medicine at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.

Dr. Walsh’s areas of clinical and research expertise include:

Breast cancer (early stage and metastatic)

Triple negative breast cancer

DNA damage repair

Clinical trials

Novel therapeutic agents

Dr. Walsh is committed to providing her patients with the highest level of care and best treatment options, while taking individual preferences and priorities into account. She works closely with a team of other medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, nurses, and patient advocates.

Education:
Fellowship: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Residency: Royal College of Physicians
Residency: Royal College of Physicians
Internship: Royal College of Physicians
Medical School: National University of Ireland

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology
Kristen D. Whitaker, MD
Hematology Oncology, Medical Oncology

Kristen D. Whitaker, MD

Kristen Whitaker, MD, MS is a board-certified medical oncologist at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. Prior to joining MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Dr. Whitaker served as an assistant professor at the NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center, Fox Chase, in Philadelphia, PA for four years, where she treated patients with breast cancer and patients at high risk for developing breast and other types of cancers.

Dr. Whitaker specializes in treating patients with breast cancer. She is a member of the multidisciplinary team that makes up the Breast Health Program at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. Dr. Whitaker’s approach to patient care is centered around collaboration with other providers and patients and providing evidence-based recommendations for patient care. She strives to take the unique needs of each of her patients into consideration and incorporates newer tools, such as genetic testing and tumor molecular profiling, to tailor treatments for her patients. Her goal is to ensure that her patients have the best possible outcomes from their cancer while taking care to minimize the number of therapies, side effects of therapy and personal hardships that patients experience because of their cancer treatment.

When Dr. Whitaker meets with patients, she is optimistic and positive because she knows that there are many effective therapy options available that can treat and, in many cases, cure her patients. While chemotherapy and hormonal therapy were once the cornerstone of breast cancer treatment, today Dr. Whitaker is excited to offer her patients newer therapies, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy, which improve cancer outcomes with less side effects. She is particularly excited that MedStar Washington Hospital Center has many clinical trial options, allowing patients from diverse backgrounds earlier access to what may become the breast cancer treatments of the future.

Dr. Whitaker is passionate about working towards eliminating racial health disparities, especially among patients with cancer. To that end, she has been published and has received multiple awards, including the 2022 NIH Loan Repayment Health Disparities Award and a 2022 AACR Career Development Award to Further Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Clinical Cancer Research.

Dr. Whitaker received her medical degree from Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. She then completed a three-year residency in internal medicine at George Washington University, prior to completing a three-year fellowship in hematology/oncology at the NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Chicago. She simultaneously completed a Master of Science at the University of Chicago while completing her fellowship. She is a member of American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Association for Cancer Research.

Philosophy of Care:
“As a native Washingtonian, I am honored to be back in my hometown serving my community. As a physician, my goal is to empower each of my patients to make the best decisions about their healthcare by educating them about the most up-to-date and proven treatment for their cancer. It is also important to me to take the time to answer questions and address concerns my patients may have at any time during their cancer journey. My patients quickly learn that there is no question that is too big or too small for us to talk about. I value collaboration from my patients and other providers and make myself readily available to both to address any questions or concerns, as I realize this is essential to providing the best possible care for my patients. I enjoy getting to know my patients as individuals and building a relationship where my patients trust me and have confidence that I always have their best interests.”

Education:
Fellowship: University of Chicago Medical Center
Residency: George Washington University Hospital
Medical School: Drexel University College of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology
Breast Surgeons
Marc E. Boisvert, MD, MBA
Surgical Oncology, Breast Surgery

Marc E. Boisvert, MD, MBA

One of the nation's top breast surgeons, Marc E. Boisvert, MD, FACS, has trained many other breast surgeons in practice throughout the world and has been named one of the best doctors in the region and nation over the past several years.

Dr. Boisvert is the site director of the MedStar Breast Health Program at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. Since 2000, he has been director of the Georgetown University Hospital Breast Oncology Fellowship Program, the only breast fellowship program in the Washington, D.C. metro area. This one-year program, conducted after completion of surgical residency, allows young surgeons to gain additional specialty training. Additionally, Dr. Boisvert is chief of the division of Breast Surgery and a clinical associate professor of surgery at Georgetown University School of Medicine. On his watch, intraoperative radiation therapy for breast cancer treatment started at the Hospital Center, where he has been the medical director since 1994. The Breast Health Program is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers. He has practiced at MedStar Washington Hospital Center since 1986.

Dr. Boisvert frequently performs low re-excision rate partial mastectomy with oncoplastic closure provided by experienced plastic surgeons, skin and nipple-sparing mastectomy, sentinel node biopsy, axillary dissection, and intraoperative radiation therapy.

At Washington Cancer Institute at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, breast care focuses on the entire patient and is provided by a highly specialized team. We provide care through an interdisciplinary tumor board, a broad panel of experts in all areas of breast cancer care, including nurse navigators, nurse practitioners, and access to the latest technology and treatments through clinical trials.

The hospital's ongoing clinical trials allow selected patients with initially positive lymph nodes to forego axillary dissection after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. This is something very new and breast surgeons here are on the verge of using radioactive seed localization instead of wire localization for nonpalpable breast tumors. These seeds can be placed several days before a surgical procedure, unlike wires which need to be placed the same day. This advance shortens the time needed to access the operating room.

Education:
Residency: Saint Raphael Campus
Internship: Saint Raphael Campus
Medical School: Georgetown University School of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Surgery, Surgery

Lucy Maria De La Cruz, MD
Breast Surgery

Lucy Maria De La Cruz, MD

Lucy Maria De La Cruz, MD, has joined MedStar Georgetown University Hospital as the Chief of the Breast Surgery Program and Director of the Ourisman Breast Center director of the MedStar Breast Health Program at MedStar Georgetown. She will be the director of the hospital’s breast surgery fellowship program. Dr. De La Cruz is a fellowship-trained breast surgeon who specializes in a number of advanced procedures, including wireless lumpectomies, hidden scar technique, and nipple-sparing mastectomies. She has been published in over two dozen scientific papers and her pivotal paper on nipple sparing mastectomy oncologic outcomes has been sighted worldwide. She is currently a peer reviewer for the Annals of Surgical Oncology, and is fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Dr. De La Cruz areas of special interest, including:

Dr. De La Cruz has a strong and long-standing commitment to promoting the equity and efficacy with which breast cancer patients are treated, a principle that has guided her clinical practice and research endeavors. She is an academic breast surgeon who conducts outcomes focused research, how the impact of genomic mapping guides breast cancer treatment and among her special interest is male breast cancer treatment. She is also passionate about disparities in breast cancer treatment as well as improving the quality and efficiency of breast cancer care delivery using the principles of value-based health care.

Education:
Fellowship: Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
Residency: University of Miami Hospital and Clinics
Medical School: Universidad Central del Este
C. Francisco Espinel, MD
Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Minimally Invasive General Surgery

C. Francisco Espinel, MD

Dr. Francisco Espinel is a board-certified general surgeon at Medstar Montgomery Medical Center with over 10 years of experience in general, breast and acute care surgery. Growing up in the D.C. metropolitan area, he has deep ties to the community and enjoys taking care of patients from Maryland, DC and Virginia. He is a second generation physician who grew up learning medicine from his father, an accomplished Nephrologist and Cardiologist.

Dr. Espinel is an assistant professor of surgery at Georgetown University. He is committed to the education of medical students, residents, and staff.

At MedStar Montgomery Medical Center he is part of a diverse general surgery team who treat a wide range of general surgical issues from the simplest to most complex general surgery cases.

Dr. Espinel enjoys a wide variety of general surgery cases from robotic davinci, minimily invasive surgery and open surgery to small procedures done in the office setting.

Dr. Espinel completed high school at Gonzaga College High School and his undergraduate degree from Catholic University of America. He then attended medical school at the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara. He completed his general surgery residency at George Washington University and fellowship at Columbia University Medical Center.

Education:
Fellowship: Columbia University Medical Center
Residency: George Washington University Hospital
Residency: Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
Residency: Pennsylvania Hospital
Internship: St. Vincent's Hospital-Manhattan
Medical School: New York Medical College
Universidad Autonoma De Guadalajara

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Surgery, Surgery

Awards:

Top Doctor Washingtonian Magazine: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020

Top Doctor Virginia Living Magazine: 2020

Top Doctor Northern Virginia Magazine: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
Kelly Fritz, MD
Breast Surgery

Jennifer D. Son, MD
Breast Surgery, General Surgery

Jennifer D. Son, MD

Dr. Jennifer D. Son is a board-certified general surgeon and fellowship-trained breast surgeon. Dr. Son's clinical interests include breast conservation, nipple sparing mastectomies, intraoperative radiation, oncoplastic breast surgery, risk-reducing breast surgery, and treatment of both benign and malignant breast disease.

Dr. Son has published papers and book chapters focusing on safety and efficacy of nipple sparing mastectomies, invasive lobular cancer, disparities in breast cancer care and the development of personalized breast cancer care. She is an active member of the American College of Surgeons, the American Society of Breast Surgeons, and the Society of Surgical Oncology.

Her mission is to provide quality care to patients and to empower them to make the best medical decision for them through education and evidence-based medicine. Patients are unique and there is no "one size fits all". Working together and having excellent communication and transparency help provide compassionate and high quality care to each of her patients.

Education:
Fellowship: University of California San Francisco
Residency: Rush University Medical Center
Internship: Rush University Medical Center
Medical School: Boston University School of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Surgery, Surgery

Patricia B. Wehner, MD
Breast Surgery

Patricia B. Wehner, MD

Patricia Wehner, MD, is a board-certified surgeon with fellowship training in breast surgical oncology and an attending physician in the MedStar Breast Health Program at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. She earned her medical degree at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completed her general surgery training at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, followed by a surgical breast oncology fellowship at the University of Southern California.

Under the guidance of Dr. Melvin Silverstein, Dr. Wehner won the Scientific Impact Award at the 2013 American Society of Breast Surgeons annual conference. Dr. Wehner's special interests include ductal carcinoma in situ, intraoperative radiation, oncoplasty, and benign breast disease.

Education:
Fellowship:University of Southern California
Internship/Residency: MedStar Washington Hospital Center
Residency: MedStar Washington Hospital Center
Medical School: University of Maryland School of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Surgery, Surgery
Plastic/Reconstructive/Lymphedema Surgeons
Gabriel Alfonso Del Corral, MD
Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery

Gabriel Alfonso Del Corral, MD

Gabriel A. Del Corral, MD, is a fellowship-trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon, part of the MedStar Health Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery team at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center in Baltimore and MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. Recognized as one of the region’s most experienced microsurgical specialists, he provides comprehensive reconstructive surgical care for patients undergoing treatment for both malignant and benign breast conditions, as well as gender affirmation patients. In all cases, Dr. Del Corral applies the latest, most innovative surgical techniques to optimize outcomes, the recovery process, and comfort for his patients.

As a breast reconstruction specialist, Dr. Del Corral has extensive experience performing a wide variety of state-of-the-art procedures including DIEP/TUG/PAP as well as several other flap techniques, two-stage tissue expander/implants, and one-stage direct to implant reconstructions. He is also highly-skilled in treating patients with post-surgical lymphedema using the most advanced microsurgical techniques. This includes lymphatic surgery to treat lymphedema and breast cancer-related lymphedema.

As a gender affirmation specialist, Dr. Del Corral is trained to provide comprehensive care and compassionate support for patients who wish to transition their gender. He offers a wide range of both top and bottom surgical procedures for transman, transfemale, and nonbinary individuals, applying cutting edge surgical techniques to streamline and optimize the process of care as well as the process of recovery. Dr. Del Corral is trained and experienced with robotic genital surgery, including vaginoplasty and other phalloplasty procedures. At an increasing rate, he is consulting with and caring for patients who opted to undergo their original gender affirmation surgical procedures at other locations, and may require revisional surgery to resolve problems or concerns. In all cases, Dr. Del Corral’s guiding principle is to “meet patients where they are and guide them through the process of becoming who they want to be.”

Philosophy of Care:
“I am passionate about plastic and reconstructive surgery because I have witnessed just how valuable these procedures can be for patients in the process of healing, recovery, and fulfillment of their best and happiest quality of life. It’s never too late to consider reconstructive surgery. I take the time to help my patients understand their options and make decisions they will be happy with, long-term.”

Education:
Fellowship: Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
Fellowship: Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Residency: Lankenau Hospital
Medical School: Universidad Autonoma De Guadalajara

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Surgery, Surgery
American Board of Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery

Awards:

Baltimore Magazine, Top Doctor 2016-2020
Kenneth L. Fan, MD
Plastic Surgery

Kenneth L. Fan, MD

Kenneth L. Fan, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing at the MedStar Georgetown University Hospital of our MedStar Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery department. He specializes in breast reconstruction and microvascular surgery. He serves as an Associate Professor and 4th year clerkship director in the Georgetown University School of Medicine and Scientific Director of Plastic Surgery at the MedStar Health Research Institute.

Dr. Fan earned his medical doctorate at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Florida with research distinction. During his undergraduate and medical career, he sought additional research training at City of Hope researching cancer treatments in molecular pharmacology and at UCLA researching morphogenic properties adult mesenchymal stem cells. His passion for plastic surgery brought him to an externship in Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan where he learned from leaders in microsurgical reconstruction. Furthermore, he broadened his horizons in international health, with through his work in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and South Africa.

Dr. Fan began his career at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital through a one-year internship, six-year residency, and one-year microsurgical fellowship with the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He has a strong interest in delivering innovative solutions to improve patient care. His work has led to over 140 peer reviewed publications and chapters, a textbook, and over 150 presentations and invited panels. He has been nationally recognized at the prestigious American Association of Plastic Surgeons, won silver award for best case report for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open, and the Kawamoto best paper award at the American Cleft Palate Association. He is also a reviewer for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the Aesthetic Surgery Journal.

He pursues extensive work in reducing barriers to reconstructive surgery to the underserved community so all women suffering from breast cancer have the opportunity to feel whole again.

In his free time, he enjoys cooking, golf, and squash.

Philosophy of Care:
“My passion for cutting edge of treatments and patient centered care allows my patients to know that I am committed to treating the entire person and their health.”

Education:
Fellowship: MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Residency: MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Medical School: University of Miami Miller School of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery

Awards:

Publons.com Top Peer Reviewer, 2019

PRS Global Open, Best Case Report, Silver Award at the American Society of Plastic Surgery Meeting, 2018

Third place Resident Research Competition, 95th Annual AAPS Meeting, 2016

Best Paper Presentation, ASAPS 19th Annual Rhinoplasty Symposium, 2014

Kawamoto Best Paper Award, ACPA-ASCFS, 2012

Research Distinction, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, 2012

Medical Student Scholarship, American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery, 2011

John K. Robinson Researcher of the Year, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine 2011

Surgery Honors, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, 2010

Neuroscience Scholastic Achievement, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, 2008
Samer Jabbour, MD
Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery

Samer Jabbour, MD

Samer Jabbour, MD is a fellowship-trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon who practices at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital and MedStar Montgomery Medical Center. He specializes in breast reconstruction, microsurgery, body contouring, and cosmetic surgery.

He is dedicated to transforming the lives of breast cancer patients and performs an array of cutting-edge procedures including autologous transplantation, oncoplastic reconstruction and implant-based breast reconstruction. He is also an expert in cosmetic plastic surgery as well as body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty and breast reduction/lift.

Dr. Jabbour completed five years of plastic surgery residency, along with three different specialty fellowship trainings in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, after earning his medical doctorate from Saint Joseph’s University Medical School. He did his first fellowship at the Groupe Hospitalier Paris Saint-Joseph hospital in Paris, France, and then underwent another year of fellowship training with a focus on reconstructive plastic surgery at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Jabbour went on to complete a third year of specialty training at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, where he focused on advanced breast reconstruction techniques.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Jabbour, who speaks French and Arabic, is an avid researcher who has contributed to and published more than 40 peer-reviewed articles in the most prestigious journals about plastic surgery. His research focuses on aesthetic and microvascular surgery.

Having now brought his medical expertise to MedStar Health, Dr. Jabbour said he chose the organization because of its reputation for having some of the best medical techniques and modern technology, along with a multidisciplinary approach to care.

“Patients deserve to be treated nicely and live the life they want,” Dr. Jabbour said. “I have trained in so many different places and experienced a lot of great things. It is my goal to transform those experiences into the best quality care for patients.”

Education:
Fellowship: MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Fellowship: MD Anderson Cancer Center
Fellowship: Hospital Paris Saint-Joseph
Residency: Hotel Dieu de France
Medical School: St. Joseph's University
Rajiv P. Parikh, MD,MPHS
Microvascular Plastic Surgery, Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery

Rajiv P. Parikh, MD,MPHS

Rajiv Parikh, MD, MPHS, is an attending plastic and reconstructive surgeon affiliated with MedStar Washington Hospital Center and Assistant Clinical Professor at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. As a plastic and reconstructive specialist, he performs reconstructive surgery, from head to toe, to restore form and function in patients with cancer or traumatic injuries.

Dr. Parikh specializes in breast reconstruction after breast cancer, functional limb salvage for patients with traumatic injuries, chronic wounds, and/or oncological defects, and facial paralysis surgery. He also treats patients with peripheral nerve injuries in the upper and lower extremity as well as performs body contouring procedures, such as breast reductions and breast lifts.

Dedicated to bringing the safest, most novel techniques to his patients, Dr. Parikh performs microsurgical reconstruction and utilizes enhanced recovery after surgery protocols (ERAS) to minimize pain and improve patient outcomes. He is specialty-trained in autologous microvascular breast reconstruction techniques and in restoring sensation to women’s breasts, both after mastectomy and breast reconstruction. He also performs unique treatments with lymphovenous bypass (LVB), or vascularized lymph node transplants, to prevent and treat lymphedema in women with breast cancer undergoing axillary lymph node dissections. He employs novel techniques to treat facial paralysis, such as nerve transfer procedures.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Parikh is invested in the advancement of his field and is an active researcher, having published more than 40 scientific papers and book chapters. Currently, he is investigating health disparities, value-based healthcare delivery, surgical outcomes, and surgical treatment decision-making among the breast cancer and extremity reconstruction populations.

As an early adopter and leading investigator on enhanced recovery after surgery protocols; which aim to reduce pain, minimize the need for narcotics, and get patients back to their normal function earlier; Dr. Parikh is dedicated to improving patient satisfaction after surgery.

Dr. Parikh received his medical degree from the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, where he earned membership to the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. He then joined Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis for residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery. During his time at Washington University, he also completed a Master of Population Health Sciences degree and a clinical research fellowship with the university’s Institute of Public Health, which was supported by a National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Research Service Award. Finally, he completed specialty fellowship training in microsurgery and oncological reconstruction at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.

Dr. Parikh was an inaugural recipient of the Plastic Surgery Foundation Clinical Research Leaders Scholarship Award. He is involved, on a national level, with plastic surgery organizations and has served as a resident ambassador to the Editorial Board, and is currently a peer-reviewer, for the journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (PRS).

In his free time, Dr. Parikh enjoys spending time with his wife, traveling, playing basketball and soccer, and alpine skiing.

Philosophy of Care:
“I am a firm believer in a personalized patient-centered approach to care. My philosophy is to provide care that is respectful of individual patient preferences, needs, and values, and to ensure that patient values guide all clinical decisions. This approach requires a true partnership with patients, one where I really listen to the individual patient’s needs and aspirations.

“I always use a shared-decision making process where patients are actively engaged. I use examples and plain language to explain different treatment options available to patients in an easy-to-understand way. After explaining all of their options, I listen to patients and work with them to help them choose the option that best accomplishes their goals and improves their individual situation.

“My goal, in addition to being an excellent healthcare provider, is to be a trustworthy and reliable colleague. I am always available to help referring physicians in any way. I encourage open and frequent communication and will always work to see referred patients as soon as possible. I will always update referring providers after I evaluate their patient and again if I provide any surgical treatment to the patient.”

Education:
Fellowship: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Residency: Washington University/Barnes Jewish Hospital
Graduate Education: Washington University School of Medicine
Medical School: University of South Florida School of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery

Awards:

Clinical Research Leaders Scholarship, Inaugural Recipient: The Plastic Surgery Foundation (PSF), American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)

Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Institutional Research Training Grant (T32), National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute)

Most Outstanding Presentation, James Barrett Brown Research Day, Washington University School of Medicine)

Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society (AΩA)
David H. Song, MD, MBA
Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery

David H. Song, MD, MBA

David H. Song, MD, is MedStar Health's Physician Executive Director for MedStar Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and Academic Chair for the Department of Plastic Surgery at Georgetown University Medical Center. As such, he directs the full range of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery services at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and MedStar Washington Hospital Center.

An internationally recognized expert in plastic surgery, Dr. Song is known for his pioneering work in chest wall reconstruction techniques, particularly DIEP flap procedures, and oncoplastic surgery. He is also a specialist in performing lymphovenous bypass and lymph node transfer using microsurgical and super-microsurgical techniques to reduce the severity of lymphedema.

A widely published and prolific researcher, Dr. Song is an associate editor for plastic surgery's leading professional journals, a reviewer for many other medical publications, and an editor or co-author of numerous text books and chapters, respectively. He is a frequent guest lecturer at major medical schools and hospitals, and appears regularly as a speaker at national and international conferences. Dr. Song has been recognized as a top regional doctor by Castle Connolly and Chicago Magazine.

Before joining MedStar, Dr. Song was chief of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at The University of Chicago Medicine. He is a past president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and a director for the American Board of Plastic Surgery, among others.

Dr. Song received his medical degree with thesis from the University of California School of Medicine, Los Angeles. He then fulfilled his internship at the University of Chicago Hospitals, where he subsequently completed the rest of his training: residencies in general surgery and plastic surgery, followed by a fellowship in microsurgery. Dr. Song also holds an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

Philosophy of Care:
"I believe strongly in individualized patient care and treat every patient as if he or she were a member of my own family. In my role as an educator of the next generation of plastic surgeons, I urge my residents to follow that same approach. It's the only way to assure you're providing the best, most up-to-date, compassionate and empathetic care possible, to every patient, every time. "

Conditions Treated:

Breast reconstruction

Lymphedema

Cosmetic Surgery

Procedures Performed:

Plastic surgery

Oncoplastic surgery

Microsurgery

Lymphovenous bypass

Lymph node transfer/transplant

Breast implant revisions, DIEP Flap Breast reconstruction after implant failure

Education:
Graduate Education: University of Chicago College
Fellowship: University of Chicago Medical Center
Residency: University of Chicago Medical Center
Internship: University of Chicago Medical Center
Medical School: University of California Los Angeles

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery
Laura Tom, MD
Plastic Surgery

Laura Tom, MD

Laura Tom, MD, is an attending physician in MedStar Washington Hospital Center’s Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery department, whose work is all about uplifting patients. As a general plastic surgeon, Dr. Tom uses inpatient and outpatient cosmetic and reconstructive surgical treatments to improve and/or restore the patient’s quality of life that has been affected by a wide range of conditions, including skin cancer, acute and chronic wounds, lymphedema, and hernias.

More specifically, Dr. Tom specializes in microsurgical complex reconstruction techniques, including microvascular reconstruction and super-microsurgery for lymphedema. Surgical treatment for lymphedema—the swelling in limbs that occurs after the damage or removal of lymph nodes—is a relatively new field of surgery because microscope, instrument, and suture technology have all improved to make the necessary techniques feasible. Most providers and patients are more familiar with the non-surgical means of treating lymphedema, such as massage and compression. But promising surgical approaches are now on the horizon: Using microsurgical techniques, it is sometimes possible to move tissue or attempt reconstruction to bypass lymph nodes that are not working.

Dr. Tom completed her surgical training at the University of Washington in Seattle ,where she helped treat a high volume of patients from all around the Pacific Northwest. She joined Medstar Washington Hospital Center after completing a specialized fellowship in microsurgery and lymphatic surgery at Hospital de Sant Pau in Barcelona, Spain. During her fellowship, she visited hospitals across Europe and Asia, learning from and networking with experts in complex reconstruction from around the world.

Dr. Tom’s practice at MedStar Washington Hospital Center includes pressure wound surgery, breast surgery, body contouring, complex reconstruction for trauma, cancer and limb salvage, and the surgical treatment of lymphedema. She looks forward to expanding the hospital’s practice, focusing on educating patients about new or developing procedures with the potential to save limbs that would otherwise require amputation, as well as prevent advanced lymphedema from occurring through early interventions.

Philosophy of Care:
“My passion is trying to help patients reclaim some of what they feel they’ve lost. I credit my philosophy of care to one of the pioneers in plastic surgery from the 1500's, Gaspare Tagliacozzie, who wrote: ‘We restore, rebuild, and make whole those parts which nature hath given, but which fortune has taken away. Not so much that it may delight the eye, but that it might buoy up the spirit, and help the mind of the afflicted.’

“Whatever misfortune, whether it be trauma or cancer, has happened to the patient, our job is about trying to get them back to what and where they were before, or as close to that as possible - back to work, back to fishing, back to being themselves.

“I completed my fellowship training abroad because I wanted to work with some of the world’s leading experts in specialized lymphatic procedures, so that I could bring their wisdom and experience back to my practice here in Washington, DC. I hope to offer patients solutions they didn’t even know existed.

“The patients here at Washington Hospital Center are phenomenal, and our staff is rock solid. It is a pleasure to come to work every day.”

Education:
Fellowship: Santa Creu and Sant Pau Hospital
Residency: University of Washington Medical Center
Medical School: Yale University School of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery
Mimi Yue Wu Young, MD
Plastic Surgery

Mimi Yue Wu Young, MD

Mimi Wu Young, MD, is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. Along with fellowship training in microsurgery, her specialties are implant- and flap-based breast reconstruction, super-microsurgery for lymphedema treatment, body contouring, as well as general reconstructive and aesthetic surgeries. She also offers an innovative approach to breast reconstruction using omental free flaps for patients who may otherwise not be candidates for autologous breast reconstruction.

Dr. Wu Young has a background in general surgery at Northwestern, plastic and reconstructive surgery training at the University of Chicago, and a microsurgery fellowship at Stanford. These experiences provided her with opportunities to work with many leading trailblazers in breast reconstruction and lymphedema surgery. Dr. Wu Young’s passion for comprehensive cancer care also led her to become an International Visiting Scholar at ASAN Medical Center in Seoul where she honed her super-microsurgical reconstruction skills to treat lymphedema alongside world-renowned experts.

Dr. Wu Young’s approach to care centers on partnering with patients to help them fully understand surgical goals, openly discuss reconstructive options, and empoweringly make informed decisions about their individualized plans. Through multidisciplinary collaborations and team-based protocols, she aims to deliver comprehensive and compassionate care to every patient. At the same time, Dr. Wu Young’s research interests in breast reconstruction and lymphedema furthers her commitment to advance evidence-based investigations that pioneer new methods to improve clinical outcomes.

In her free time, Dr. Wu Young enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, listening to live music, exploring the outdoors, and traveling the world.

Philosophy of Care:
“It is common to feel vulnerable and overwhelmed when choosing to have surgery. That’s why I believe in taking the time to have meaningful and empathetic conversations with my patients. From answering every question to discussing all concerns, I want to nurture relationships that are respectful of each patient’s mental and physical comfort as well as aligned with their reconstructive and aesthetic goals. By working together, we develop personalized plans that are unique to every patient.”

“As a female plastic surgeon and mother, I have an inherent understanding of not only the physical changes in a woman’s body after various life events, but also the psychological impacts it may bear. Such shared experiences – combined with my passion for helping patients feel comfortable in their own bodies – motivates me every day.”

Education:
Fellowship: Stanford University
Residency: University of Chicago
Residency: McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University
Medical School: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Radiation Oncologists
Luther Ampey, MD
Radiation Oncology

Luther Ampey, MD

Luther L. Ampey, III, MD, is board certified in radiation oncology at MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center. He specializes in stereotactic, external beam and hyperfractionated radiotherapy to treat breast, prostate, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers. He also is a member of the American Society of Radiation Oncology, American College of Radiology, American Medical Association, American College of Radiation Oncology, and American Brachytherapy Society.

Dr. Ampey’s approach to care centers on providing compassionate and personalized services. He begins by having thoughtful conversations with patients to learn about their specific health goals and concerns. He also reviews medical histories, performs physical exams, and orders laboratory tests to gain in-depth awareness about their specific conditions and symptoms. He then works closely with them to develop comprehensive care plans that include evidence-based treatments and pain management solutions. With a detailed-oriented team of oncology nurses, radiation therapists, medical physicists, and dosimetrists, he offers safe therapies that advance overall well-being and comfort.

Dr. Ampey is particularly interested in clinical breakthroughs that create new or enhanced cancer treatments. One example is recent data suggesting that the combined use of radiation and immunotherapy can help the immune system more effectively attack certain types of cancer. Referring physicians should know that he will keep them well informed about their patients’ progress while ensuring that they receive the best possible outcomes.

Philosophy of Care:
“I’ve always been interested in science – the continuous process of discovering novel and building upon past knowledge. When fused with my being a people person, radiation oncology was the perfect medical field for me.

I enjoy sharing that knowledge with patients so they can make well-informed decisions about their health. As a result, I take the time to ensure that they fully understand every aspect of the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery process. Equally important, I encourage shared decision making to make certain their important voices are respectfully heard and valued.”

Education:
Fellowship: University of Maryland Medical System
Residency: University of Maryland Medical System
Medical School: University of Virginia School of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Radiology, Radiation Oncology

Awards:

Physician of the Year, MedStar Montgomery Medical Center (2019)

Physician Commitment Award, MedStar Montgomery Center Foundation (2014)

Hero Award, American Cancer Society (2010)

Top Doctors, Washingtonian (2018, 2014, 2012, 2010 and 2008)

Teacher of the Year, Association of Residents in Radiation Oncology (2008)
Adedamola Omogbehin, MD
Radiation Oncology

Adedamola Omogbehin, MD

Adedamola Omogbehin, MD, is board certified in radiation oncology at MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. As a radiation oncologist who specializes in gynecological cancer, sarcoma, and breast cancer, Dr. Omogbehin provides external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy treatments. He also is a member of the American Board of Radiology, American Brachytherapy Society, American College of Radiology, and American Society for Therapeutic Radiology.

Dr. Omogbehin’s approach to care centers on providing empathetic and compassionate services. He begins by listening to patients to learn about their specific health concerns and goals. He then educates them about every phase of treatment including performing radiation therapy simulations. This planning phase familiarizes patients with the state-of-the-art equipment while also demonstrating how their bodies will be positioned during every session.

Dr. Omogbehin is dedicated to raising awareness about high-dose brachytherapy – an innovative therapy that destroys or controls the growth of cancer cells with limited radiation exposure to surrounding normal tissues. He is particularly interested in interstitial and intracavitary brachytherapy that uses specialized needles and applicators to place radiation implants near or inside targeted tumors. His research interests are focused on promising clinical trials that are committed to improving cancer patients’ medical outcomes and quality of life. Referring physicians should know that he collaborates with many oncology specialists to provide comprehensive and accessible care.

Philosophy of Care:
“I’ve always been curious about physics, radiology, and biology. That fascination led me to radiation oncology, a medical field that combines all three disciplines. I enjoy applying my knowledge and experience towards helping patients reduce or eliminate their cancer symptoms and anxiety. When combined with my background of working at health organizations in the United States and around the world, I’m passionate about providing kind and stellar care that makes a difference in the lives of diverse communities.”

Education:
Residency: Howard University Hospital
Medical School: University of Ibadan College of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Radiology
American Brachytherapy Society

American College of Radiology
American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology
Radiosurgery Society

Awards:

Minority Investigator Travel Award, National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (2011)
Nitika Paudel, MD
Radiation Oncology

Nitika Paudel, MD

Nitika Paudel, MD, PhD, is a radiation oncologist in the Department of Radiation Medicine at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. She is passionate about improving patient outcomes with collaboration, patient education, and clinical research. Dr. Paudel specializes in:

Three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy

Intensity and volumetric-modulated radiation therapy

Image-guided radiation therapy

Stereotactic body radiation therapy

Stereotactic radiosurgery

Proton therapy

High dose rate brachytherapy

Dr. Paudel is currently an active member of the American Society of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, American College of Radiation Oncology, Chicago Radiologic Society, and several other groups. She has been published in several prestigious scientific journals, including Surgical Oncology, Practical Radiation Oncology, International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology and Physics, and Journal of Virology.

Education:
Residency: McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University
Graduate: University of Health Sciences Chicago Medical School
Medical School: Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine/Science
Graduate: Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine/Science

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Radiology, Diagnostic Radiology
Pamela Randolph-Jackson, MD
Radiation Oncology

Pamela Randolph-Jackson, MD

Pamela D. Randolph-Jackson, MD, is chair of the Department of Radiation, MedStar Washington Hospital Center. Her research focuses on radiation oncology, especially for use in treating breast, lung and gastrointestinal malignancies. She specifically is interested in treatments using positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT); magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/CT fusion; three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy; and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for breast, rectal, uterine, prostate and lung cancer.

At the Hospital Center, she serves on the Oncology Informatics Committee, the Clinical Quality Strategy Task Force and the Cancer Steering Committee. In addition, she developed the Dosimetry fellows program.

Dr. Randolph-Jackson is certified in radiation oncology by the American Board of Radiology. Her research has been published in Neurosurgery. She is a member of the American Society of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, the National Medical Association and the American College of Physician Executives. Dr. Randolph-Jackson has been listed as a Top Doctor by Washingtonian magazine.

Her medical degree is from the Quillen-Dishner College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN. She completed an internship in Medicine and a residency in Radiation Oncology at Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC. She continued her training with a clinical fellowship at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia.

Education:
Fellowship: Sidney Kimmel Medical College

Residency: Howard University Hospital
Medical School: East Tennessee State University
Medical School: Cornell University

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Radiology, Diagnostic Radiology

Sonali Rudra, MD
Radiation Oncology

Sonali Rudra, MD

Sonali Rudra, MD, serves as director of the Breast Cancer Radiation Oncology Program at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, and an assistant professor for the Department of Radiation Medicine at the Georgetown University School of Medicine. She specializes in treating patients with breast cancer, gynecologic malignancies, pediatric malignancies, and central nervous malignancies, with a range of technologies including proton therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy/image-guided radiation therapy (IMRT/IGRT/Rapid Arc), CyberKnife stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), CyberKnife stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and high-dose rate brachytherapy.

Dr. Rudra is widely published in respected clinical journals and serves on an editorial board reviewing clinical articles. She also participates in professional activities, serving as a core member of the team at Georgetown responsible for accreditation by the NAPBC (National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers) to ensure clinical quality, as well as being a member of the Intraoperative Radiation (IORT) Working Group.

Philosophy of Care:
"I believe in treating my patients as individuals, and strive to provide them with the best possible outcomes while minimizing the effect on their lives."

Education:
Residency: The University of Chicago Medical Center Center For Care and Discovery
Graduate: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Radiology, Diagnostic Radiology

Andrew Satinsky, MD
Radiation Oncology

Andrew Satinsky, MD

Andrew Satinsky, MD, is an attending radiation oncologist at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and clinical director of the Radiation Oncology Center at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center.

A specialist in prostate cancer and lung cancer, Dr. Satinsky uses the very latest radiation oncology techniques and tools including proton therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy, low- and high-dose rate gynecologic brachytherapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy/image-guided radiation therapy (IMRT/IGRT/ Rapid Arc), and CyberKnife stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) plus CyberKnife stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

Dr. Satinsky has been involved in research on a variety of radiation oncology-related issues. Active in his profession, Dr. Satinsky helps train new doctors as the chair of the MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Radiation Oncology Residency Program Clinical Competency Committee. He also serves as chair of the MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Cancer Committee, and is a member of the education committee.

Philosophy of Care:
"At the MedStar Southern Maryland Radiation Oncology Center, we have a full team of experienced physicians, nurses, radiation therapists, and physicists who create a holistic approach to cancer care. Being on the grounds of MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center greatly improves the convenience of daily radiation treatments for our patients. We take great pride in not only our outstanding clinical outcomes and consistently excellent patient satisfaction scores but in our continuing ability to provide cancer care excellence to the Southern Maryland region."

Education:
Residency: Georgetown University Medical Center GME

Residency: George Washington University School of Medicine
Medical School: University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Radiology, Radiation Oncology
Keith Unger, MD
Radiation Oncology

Keith Unger, MD

Board-certified radiation oncologist Keith Unger, MD, is the Physician Executive Director of MedStar Health's Radiation Oncology Service Line, Chief of Radiation Oncology at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, and the Medical Director of RadAmerica. He is the Acting Academic Chair of the Department of Radiation Medicine and a Professor at Georgetown University School of Medicine. He serves on the Medical Executive Committee of MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.

Dr. Unger's clinical practice focuses on the treatment of complex gastrointestinal cancers, sarcomas, prostate cancer, as well as advanced radiation therapy techniques.

Dr. Unger completed his internship at MedStar Washington Hospital Center and residency at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, including a year as chief resident for Radiation Oncology. He received both his undergraduate and medical degree from the University of Virginia, where he was the recipient of numerous academic honors and awards.

As a researcher and educator, Dr. Unger has been a co-author to multiple text book chapters and publications in peer-reviewed journals, as well as a presenter at major medical meetings. His research focuses on the development of novel radiation therapy techniques and reduction in treatment-related side effects. He is an investigator for several active clinical and basic science research studies and his work has been supported by grant funding. He previously served as chair of the gastrointestinal committee for the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology and serves a member of a physician advisory board for proton therapy.

Dr. Unger sees patients at both MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center.

Education:
Residency: MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Residency: MedStar Washington Hospital Center
Medical School: University of Virginia School of Medicine

Certification and Associations:
American Board of Radiology, Radiation Oncology

Awards:

Association of Residents in Radiation Oncology Educator of the Year
Best of ASTRO Abstract Award Annual Meeting

Top Doctor, Washingtonian Magazine

Radiation Research Society Scholars in Training Travel Award

Exceptional care, every time.

A range of cancer treatment options

Whether your treatment plan includes surgery, radiation therapy, the option to participate in clinical trials, or other support services, you can be sure everything you need is offered within the MedStar Health network. And those options are expanding, with new therapies and research continually rolling out across the organization. Our partnership with the MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute offers additional access to advanced technologies and emerging treatments, some of which you can’t find anywhere else in the region. Learn more about our treatment options.
Comprehensive team approach
When you come to MedStar Health, a team of breast specialists will work together to create a personalized treatment plan just for you. You’ll meet with the breast surgeon, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologist all at the same time. Our streamlined process eliminates the need for multiple appointments and fosters a beneficial collaboration. Studies show those who receive this type of multidisciplinary care during their breast cancer diagnosis and treatment have better survival rates than those who do not have this advantage. It can also help reduce the cost of treatment, while increasing your quality of life, mental health, and overall well-being.

Our experienced team of multidisciplinary specialists includes:

Breast surgeons

Radiologists

Medical oncologists

Radiation oncologists

Pathologists

Breast reconstruction surgeons

Nurse practitioners

Genetic counselors

Clinical trial specialists

Social workers

Nurse navigators

Clinical nutritionists

Physical therapists
Leaders in breast reconstruction

MedStar Health is a nationally recognized leader in breast reconstruction. Our plastic and reconstructive surgeons have years of experience working exclusively in breast procedures and have developed their own surgical techniques to help patients recover faster and have better results. For example, we have pioneered surgeries for the treatment and prevention of lymphedema, a painful swelling of the arms that can occur when lymph nodes are removed during breast cancer treatment. As one of only a few centers on the East Coast to perform these microsurgical procedures, patients come to us from all over the country. In addition, we are training surgeons worldwide on these new techniques.
An expansive offering of breast health services
From prevention to treatment and beyond, MedStar Health brings you a full range of service options.

Disease prevention: breast self-exam training, risk assessment, genetic testing.

Routine evaluation: preventative care through annual well woman exams.

Breast imaging: screening, diagnostic, and digital mammography, with breast radiologists to interpret the images.

Diagnostic evaluation: needle localization, open surgical biopsy, frozen section pathology, stereotactic biopsy, sentinel node biopsy.

Comprehensive treatment: therapies for benign breast disease and breast pain, fine needle aspiration, wireless lumpectomy, partial or total mastecomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.

Plastic surgery: reconstructive, breast conserving surgery procedures.

To request an appointment, call

202-295-0513,

or submit an online form.

To make a breast imaging or mammogram appointment, click here

Request an Appointment

Discover our state-of-the-art treatment options.

We treat a wide range of conditions, including breast cancer, benign breast diseases, and non-cancerous breast tumors.

A woman lays in a diagnostic imaging machine to get a scan.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy drugs are given to stop the growth of cancer cells in your breast, as well as kill any cancer cells that could have spread beyond the breast.
Breast endocrine hormone therapy

About two out of every three breast cancers are fueled by the natural hormones in our bodies. We offer the latest options in hormone therapy, including estrogen blockers, to lower hormone levels or stop them from acting on breast cancer cells.
Targeted therapies for breast cancer

Targeted therapy is among the latest advances against breast cancer and can include biological treatments or immunotherapy. We start by identifying a breast cancer’s particular characteristics, then use drugs to target vulnerabilities in the). With immunotherapy we trigger the body’s own immune response to attack the tumor
Breast surgery

Our team specializes in breast-conserving and nipple- and skin-sparing procedures. Utilizing surgical guidance systems, such Sentimag (Magseed and MagTrace) which allows for wireless localization of breast lesions as well as targeted and minimized lymph node surgery. We even offer a same-day discharge option after mastectomy.
Breast radiation

Radiation therapy is painless and uses high-energy particles or rays (like an intense X-ray) to kill cancerous cells. It is delivered by our radiation oncologists—specialists who form a key part of our team and have spent years in the field of breast health. Procedures available include heart-sparing techniques and intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT), a single-dose form of radiation that can be performed at the same time as a lumpectomy in early-stage patients. We are also proud to offer proton therapy, which delivers precision accuracy with less radiation than conventional therapies.
Lymphedema prevention and treatment

We take a proactive and thoughtful approach to manage your risk of developing secondary lymphedema. Our reconstructive surgeons are internationally renowned for their experience in performing lymph node transfer surgery and lymphovenous bypass. As one of few centers on the East coast offering surgical options to prevent and manage lymphedema, patients come to us from all over the country.
Breast reconstruction surgery

If you need to undergo a mastectomy, you may elect to have breast reconstruction surgery. We offer the latest techniques, including prepectoral breast implant reconstruction, which results in less pain and a faster recovery. Our expert physicians can help you choose the right procedure for you.
Nipple-sparing techniques

In select patients, we can leave the nipple and the areola complex intact to maintain your previous appearance as much as possible. You should talk with your breast surgeon and plastic surgeon to see if you are a candidate for this procedure.
Breast Resensation

During a mastectomy, the breast tissue is removed, cutting the nerves that provide feeling to the chest. Resensation is a technique of breast neurotization, or nerve repair, that can potentially restore feeling as part of breast reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy. Resensation uses allograft nerve tissue to reconnect and bridge the gap between the nerves in your chest and the nerves in your reconstructed breast tissue.

Locations near you

We have five breast centers conveniently located in and around Maryland and Washington D.C.

To request an appointment, call

202-295-0513,

or submit an online form.

To make a breast imaging or mammogram appointment, click here

Request an Appointment

Nationally Accredited and Recognized

Full accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers
American College of Radiology accredited
Accreditation with Commendation from the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer (CoC)

Patient stories

"I always felt I was being heard by my doctors."

When Loretta Reinersmann felt some discomfort and a small lump in her breast, she called her MedStar Health primary care physician Christopher Mays, MD, who arranged for her to come into the office right away. He sent her to get a mammogram, telling her the next step would be a biopsy. After the mammogram confirmed the need for a biopsy, Dr. Mays next called a colleague, Jennifer Son, MD, a fellowship-trained breast surgeon at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center and arranged for Loretta to have a biopsy the next day.

Who should see a breast cancer specialist?

It is important to schedule an appointment with a breast cancer specialist if any key warning signs of cancer are detected through the process of self-breast exam. These may include a painless lump, unexplained pain, redness, or hardening in the breast, swelling of the lymph nodes, changes in the nipple, or discharge from the nipple. Additionally, it is important that women over the age of 40 schedule a yearly screening mammogram, to assure the earliest possible detection of breast cancer. In the event that a woman’s mammogram shows an area of concern, in many cases the next step is to consult with a breast cancer specialist, who may order some additional testing and/or a biopsy, if deemed necessary. Lastly, many women choose to consult with a breast cancer specialist proactively if there is a history of breast cancer in their family. Genetics play a key role in determining a woman’s risk for breast cancer, so identifying a doctor who can stay on top of your health and assure you are getting the appropriate screenings, based on your age and family history, is important.
What are the stages of breast cancer?

There are five stages of breast cancer.

Stage 0 is the most common form of non-invasive breast cancer, and is also called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). At this stage, there is no evidence that cancerous cells are impacting normal, surrounding tissue.

Stage I is a very early form of invasive breast cancer, typically contained to a small area. Stage IA indicates the presence of a tumor that is 20 millimeters or less in size, with no evidence of impact to the lymph nodes. Stage IB also indicates a tumor that is 20 millimeters or less in size, with a small cluster of cancerous cells in the lymph nodes.

Stage II breast cancer is still contained in a small region of the breast, but indicates a larger tumor – normally ranging between 20 and 50 millimeters in size. Stage IIA is diagnosed when cancer has not spread to the lymph nodes and Stage IIB is diagnosed with cancerous cells are detected in the nearby lymph nodes.

Stage III indicates that cancer has spread further into the breast, or that a tumor larger in size has been detected. There are three categories that can be diagnosed within Stage III breast cancer, determined by whether or not cancerous cells have been found in the lymph nodes near the breast, in the underarm area, and/or surrounding the collarbone, or has spread to or broken through the skin.

Stage IV is the most advanced form of breast cancer, indicating that cancer has been detected in the lymph nodes as well as other organs of the body – commonly the liver, lungs, bones, or brain.
Who should get a second opinion for breast cancer?
Whether or not to seek a second opinion for breast cancer – or any medical diagnosis – is a personal decision. Many patients do choose to schedule a consultation with a second doctor for these reasons:

A second opinion is a way to confirm the nature of your disease and that that diagnosis you were initially given is correct.

Seeking a second opinion gives you an opportunity to explore various treatment options. The reality is that different doctors may approach treatment from various angles. Some may have the ability to offer clinical trials or other forms of researched-based medicine. Others may be able to offer a wide range of support services, to guide you through your treatment process in ways that go beyond physical care. It is important to understand what these options are so that you can make an informed and educated decision about which plan of care feels right, and will give you the best chance for survivorship.

The personal connection matters. It is important for breast cancer patients to choose a doctor that makes them comfortable and who is committed to the delivery of personalized care.
What if I found a lump on my breast?
What is a breast lump?

A breast lump is a localized swelling or mass that can be felt in the breast tissue. It may vary in size, shape, and texture.

Are all breast lumps cancerous?

No, not all breast lumps are cancerous. Many breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous) and can be caused by various factors such as hormonal changes, cysts, fibroadenomas, or infections.

When should I be concerned about a breast lump?

It's important to consult a breast surgeon if you notice a new lump, any changes in an existing lump, or if you experience associated symptoms such as pain, nipple discharge, or changes in breast appearance.

How are breast lumps diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, imaging studies (mammogram, ultrasound, MRI), and, if necessary, a biopsy to determine if the lump is benign or cancerous.

What is a breast biopsy?

A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue from the breast lump for examination under a microscope. This helps determine whether the lump is cancerous or benign.

Can hormonal changes cause breast lumps?

Yes, hormonal changes, especially during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause, can lead to the development of breast lumps.

How are benign breast lumps treated?

Treatment depends on the specific type of lump. Some may require no intervention, while others may be drained, excised, or monitored over time.

What is the likelihood of a breast lump being cancerous?

The majority of breast lumps are non-cancerous. However, it's crucial to seek medical evaluation quickly for an accurate diagnosis.

Can men get breast lumps?

Yes, though less common, men can develop breast lumps. Any unusual changes in the breast tissue should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Remember, early detection and timely medical intervention are crucial for the best possible outcomes. If you discover a lump on your breast scheduled an appointment with one of our breast surgeons.

For Referring Physicians

If you are caring for a patient who requires treatment from the MedStar Health, we encourage you to refer them to one of our practices. We value your partnership and are committed to ongoing collaboration with you to bring your patient the attention they need.

Refer a Patient

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