Alex Thomas, M.D., DABS Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, Pancreatic Cancer, Liver Cancer, Biliary Cancer, Surgical Oncology in Charleston, SC

As a surgical oncologist specializing in hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery, I treat complex diseases of the pancreas, liver, gallbladder, and biliary tract. I see patients for HPB-based cancers and benign conditions, as well as select gastrointestinal and retroperitoneal tumors. Utilizing robotic, laparoscopic, and open techniques, I tailor treatments to each individual patient. A cancer diagnosis can be life-changing, and even benign disorders of these organ systems can be challenging to treat. I prioritize clear communication and work closely with my team to ensure that each patient and their family understand the diagnosis and treatment options. My goal is to provide compassionate, state-of-the-art care that optimizes safety, recovery, and long-term outcomes. After earning my medical degree at Tulane University, I completed my general surgery residency and postdoctoral research fellowship at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. My passion for helping people with pancreas and liver cancer led me to dual fellowship training in Complex General Surgical Oncology and HPB surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, the highest volume robotic pancreas program in the U.S. My training included advanced techniques in robotic HPB surgery, hepatic artery infusion pump placement, and other liver-directed therapies, and I was named Administrative Chief Fellow of the surgical oncology program. In addition to my clinical work, I am committed to surgical education and mentorship, along with research focused on improving outcomes for patients with advanced pancreas and liver cancers. I am a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and Gold Humanism Honor Society, and I received the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons Class of 2023 Excellence in Teaching Award. I have contributed to national consensus guidelines, authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, and serve on the editorial board of BMC Surgery.