.jpg)
Dr. Stephen Laga is a distinguished cardiothoracic surgeon whose extensive experience spans both general and cardiovascular surgery. He earned his medical degree from St. Louis University School of Medicine, followed by an internship at St. Louis University Group Hospitals. His surgical journey continued with a general surgery residency at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke's Medical Center in Chicago and a thoracic surgery residency at Baylor College of Medicine, culminating in a fellowship in cardiovascular surgery also at Baylor. Throughout his illustrious career, Laga has held key roles at numerous prestigious institutions, including his current practice at Froedtert South Medical Group. His commitment to patient care and leadership extends to his service as a Major in the U.S. Air Force Medical Corps.
In this interview, Dr. Stephen Laga shares insights from his journey, the mentors who influenced his path, and his approach to nurturing the next generation of medical professionals.
Early Influences and Career Path
Who has had the greatest influence on your professional development, and what lessons have stayed with you?
Michael DeBakey, M.D., was a special mentor. The most important lesson he imparted was to "Do the right thing." It's about determining what is optimal and best for the patient based on their individual condition. This approach requires understanding the full situation of each patient and adapting the treatment plan to their specific needs, which is a difficult lesson to master but crucial in providing quality care.
What pivotal piece of advice has shaped your career or approach to patient care?
During my time with Dr. DeBakey, I learned the importance of preparation. One must know as much as possible about a patient's problems before committing to a procedure. The medical field is fraught with uncertainties, and being well-prepared helps manage unexpected challenges effectively.
Mentorship and Professional Development
How do you approach mentoring the next generation of medical professionals, and what guidance do you find most valuable to share?
Mentoring involves providing a historical context on particular topics and discussing various available procedures. With technology and knowledge constantly evolving, it's important to teach mentees how to best utilize available resources to tackle medical challenges. For instance, in the past, high-risk patients with aortic stenosis did not have access to procedures like TAVR, which are now standard care.
What strategies do you use to build strong, lasting professional relationships with mentors and colleagues?
Communication is key. It's essential to maintain regular dialogue with primary care and specialist colleagues, sharing honest opinions and seeking theirs in return. This collaborative approach ensures a more comprehensive understanding of patient care and professional growth.
When seeking guidance from others, what qualities do you value most in a mentor?
Reliability is crucial. I consistently seek information from reliable sources. If the information I receive is not dependable, I pursue other avenues until I find reliable data. My current hospital provides a wealth of reliable information, which is invaluable to my practice.
How has your approach to mentoring evolved as you’ve gained more experience in your field?
I have adopted a Socratic method in teaching, focusing on questioning my mentees to assess their knowledge, followed by transmitting necessary information non-judgmentally. This method allows mentees to differentiate between problems and dilemmas, which is vital in their learning process.
How do you recognize the potential in young medical professionals, and what steps do you take to support their success?
Recognizing potential involves identifying interest, tenacity, and ability in young professionals. A thirst for knowledge and a drive to work hard are essential for a fulfilling and rewarding experience. Supporting their success includes guiding them through challenges and providing opportunities for growth.
How do you continue learning from past mentors, and how has their influence shaped your ongoing professional journey?
I revisit past experiences with mentors, reflecting on the problems they faced and their solutions to those issues. Although the exact problems may differ today, the approaches can still be applicable. Continuous learning through reading, discussions with other physicians, and attending meetings is integral to my professional growth.
Expertise and Achievements
Your career has spanned multiple states and institutions. Could you share some of your key achievements in the field of cardiothoracic surgery?
Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working at various renowned hospitals across Illinois, Louisiana, and Texas. One of my notable achievements has been the implementation of innovative surgical techniques that improve patient outcomes. Being part of pioneering teams that introduced life-saving procedures like TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) for high-risk aortic stenosis patients has been particularly rewarding. Additionally, my tenure in the U.S. Air Force Medical Corps as a Major allowed me to develop leadership skills and a commitment to excellence, which have significantly influenced my civilian medical practice.
How do you integrate new medical technologies and advancements into your practice?
Integrating new technologies requires a thorough understanding of their benefits and limitations. I prioritize staying updated with the latest research and attending professional forums where such innovations are discussed. Whenever a new technology shows promise, I evaluate its efficacy and safety before incorporating it into my practice. This cautious yet open-minded approach ensures that patients receive the best possible care without unnecessary risks.
Vision for the Future
What is your vision for the future of cardiothoracic surgery, and how do you see your role within it?
The future of cardiothoracic surgery lies in minimally invasive techniques and personalized medicine. As these fields advance, my role is to ensure that these innovations are accessible to patients while maintaining a high standard of care. I also see myself continuing to mentor young surgeons, guiding them to adapt to these changes and encouraging them to pursue research that furthers our understanding of complex cardiac conditions.
How do you plan to address the challenges facing the medical community today, particularly in cardiothoracic surgery?
One of the main challenges is the ever-increasing complexity of patient needs. Addressing this requires a multidisciplinary approach, where we collaborate with specialists across different fields. I also focus on patient education, ensuring they understand their conditions and the options available to them. This empowers patients to make informed decisions and fosters trust in the physician-patient relationship.
What advice do you have for young medical professionals who aspire to make a significant impact in their fields?
My advice is to remain curious, persistent, and dedicated to learning. The field of medicine is ever-evolving, and those who continuously seek knowledge and experience will undoubtedly make significant contributions. Building a strong professional network and finding reliable mentors can also provide invaluable support and guidance throughout one's career.
Laga's expertise and dedication continue to shape the landscape of cardiothoracic surgery. His commitment to innovation, mentoring, and patient-centered care underscores his significant impact on the medical community. As he looks to the future, Dr. Stephen Laga remains a guiding force for both current and aspiring medical professionals, ensuring that excellence in healthcare remains a paramount goal.
