Welcome to the Department of Surgery

Welcome to Southern Illinois University School of Medicine's Department of Surgery. We provide exceptional surgical care for adult and pediatric patients, conduct innovative research from bench to bed and beyond, and train the next generation of surgeons. We also lend our expertise throughout the region, by participating at health fairs and community health forums, by advising on health related legislation and beyond Illinois, participating in developing countries with mission trips and setting up surgical skills labs.

Our department consists of seven specialized divisions offering complex and innovative care for a range of diseases requiring surgical interventions. We pride ourselves on recruiting surgeons and leaders from many nationally recognized programs. We also pride ourselves on giving our residents and fellows opportunities to start their careers at SIU.

We have 74 full-time faculty and 200 additional full-time staff who support our mission. Our surgeons perform 10,000 surgeries annually for adults in the specialties of cardiothoracic surgery, general surgery, neurosurgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, orthopedic surgery, urology, and vascular surgery. We offer pediatric procedures in general surgery, orthopedic surgery, urology and plastic surgery. 

Our multidisciplinary approach to basic, clinical and translational research has produced novel treatment options for some of our population's most pressing medical needs. Our commitment to surgical education has resulted in a reputable culture of outstanding achievement in scientific investigation. Translational research is being enhanced with the expansion of our outcomes research program and our pursuit of funding for several large interdisciplinary research programs. The Department of Surgery has a strong reputation for providing competitive and comprehensive training for surgical residents and fellows, and teaching medical students.

Best regards,

Michael W. Neumeister, MD, FRCS(C), FACS
Professor and Chair, Department of Surgery
The Elvin G. Zook, MD Endowed Chair, Institute for Plastic Surgery