The University of Iowa Department of Surgery faculty and staff take pride in providing leading-edge patient care, advancing the field of surgery through first-rate research, and delivering superior education and training to the next generation of surgeons.

The department’s surgeons and medical professionals address a wide variety of complex medical issues, from matching donors with recipients in the Organ Transplant Center to providing continuous care for both adult and pediatric trauma victims in one of the state’s two designated Level I Trauma Centers and a certified regional Burn Treatment Center. Specialists provide critical surgical support among comprehensive, multidisciplinary teams for the treatment of cancer, gastrointestinal and colorectal diseases, and vascular ailments, as well as advanced surgical care for the smallest pediatric patients. Skilled plastic and reconstructive surgeons manage complex reconstructive issues resulting from deformities, traumatic injuries, or cancer excision in both adult and pediatric patients, in addition to surgical and non-surgical cosmetic services for adults.

Education

Research

About Us

The department provides critical and unique resources for Iowa. 

Years ago, surgery faculty at Iowa performed the world’s first gastric-bypass surgeries for morbidly obese patients. Today, the department continues its commitment to innovative surgical procedures and techniques in all areas, such as minimally invasive and robotic surgery, while offering advanced technologies like the positive pressure isolation room and state-of-the-art hydrotherapy facility for burn patients.

Patient care in the UI Department of Surgery is informed by basic science and clinical research—translating the latest discoveries from the laboratory bench to the patient’s bedside as well as into every aspect of education and training. Fellows, residents, and medical students are exposed to revolutionary medicine and surgical techniques that will enhance their skills, and the department’s faculty value the opportunity to shape today’s learners into tomorrow’s best and brightest surgeons.

>41K

Department of Surgery Visits

35

consecutive years ranked as one of the best academic hospitals in the U.S.

# 1

Iowa's #1 hospital as ranked by U.S. news & world report

News

Dr. Dionne Skeete recipient of 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Carver College of Medicine Events

Neuroscience Interdisciplinary Program Thesis Defense Seminar: Brooke Yeager promotional image

Neuroscience Interdisciplinary Program Thesis Defense Seminar: Brooke Yeager

Tuesday, April 14, 2026 10:00pm
Bowen Science Building

Brooke Yeager is a PhD candidate in the Neuroscience Interdisciplinary Graduate Program. Her research has been conducted in Dr. Nandakumar Narayanan's laboratory.

If you are unable to attend in person, please consider showing your support and attending via Zoom. Please email britt-hokanson@uiowa.edu for the zoom link.

GradFest 2026 promotional image

GradFest 2026

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 9:00am to 6:00pm
Iowa Memorial Union (IMU)

Are you planning to graduate this spring? Attend GradFest 2026 in the IMU Main Lounge to pick up your cap and gown, customize your Class of 2026 keepsake, and snag exclusives and discounts as you complete your graduation checklist.

You’ll also be able to gain “Life After College” tips and advice, explore commencement accessories, order graduation announcements and class rings, and browse other on-site offerings. Plus, enjoy free snacks and fun activities throughout the event.

Check back on this...

Pain Interest Group Workshop - Zahra Amerian (Ruth Chimenti Lab) promotional image

Pain Interest Group Workshop - Zahra Amerian (Ruth Chimenti Lab)

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 9:00am to 10:00am
Bowen Science Building

Preliminary Exploration of Ultrasound Imaging Biomarker for the Myofascial Component of Heel Pain

Zahra Amerian, MS
PhD Student in Dr. Ruth Chimenti's Lab

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