The Department of Surgery at the University of Utah is a nationally ranked academic surgical program that provides high-value patient care, leads in research and innovation, and inspires and educates tomorrow’s leaders in surgery.
In addition to providing expert, compassionate clinical care, our surgeons are engaged in scientific inquiry across a broad range of areas, including ground-breaking laboratory research, advanced surgical technology, and health care system innovations designed to guarantee that all our patients have ready access to personalized, compassionate, high-quality surgical care that consistently responds to their individual needs, preferences, and values.
Our Vision
The future of surgery, delivered today.
Our Mission
We provide comprehensive, compassionate care to every patient and shape the future of surgery through innovation, education, and discovery.
Welcome Our New Chair, Dr. Fiemu Nwariaku!
Fiemu Nwariaku, M.D., will serve as chair of the Department of Surgery at the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of Utah, effective July 1, 2022.
“Dr. Nwariaku excels as a leader, surgeon, educator, and scientist,” said Michael L. Good, CEO of University of Utah Health, executive dean of the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, and senior vice president of Health Sciences. “He is nationally and globally recognized for his work, and we are pleased to welcome him to University of Utah Health. All his leadership experience will help bring an already exceptional department and faculty to even greater heights of national recognition as we achieve excellence in our missions here at the University of Utah.”

Departments & Offices
Grand Rounds
Help Progress, Give Today
You can help the Department of Surgery continue to progress with even a small contribution.
Work Hard, Play Hard
Work/life balance is an important element to the culture of our institution. We offer not just competitive programs of study but also a quality of life that's hard to beat. Whether you ski, bike, hike, or just walk, our outdoors scene is unparallaled, and the natural beauty of Utah draws vistors internationally.
A HISTORY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SURGERY
After a 40-year surgical career at the University of Utah, Edward Nelson, MD, retired in 2020. Having been deeply integrated in four decades of growth, innovation, and advancements, Dr. Nelson dedicated the next phase of his career to developing a book to capture the rich history of the department from 1942 - 2022.
Department News
Upcoming Events
September 27, 2023
Transgender Health Seminar: What Can a Gender Affirming Mental Health Provider Do for Me?
Join us for a FREE hybrid seminar hosted by the Transgender Health Program! Register at the link., Speaker: ...
October 11, 2023
Transgender Health Seminar: Top Surgery
Join us for a FREE hybrid seminar hosted by the Transgender Health Program! Register at the link., Speaker: ...
October 25, 2023
Transgender Health Seminar: Understanding Your Health Insurance
Join us for a FREE hybrid seminar hosted by the Transgender Health Program! Register at the link., Speaker: ...