Abdominal Wall Surgery

Gastrointestinal Surgery and Surgical Oncology

The section of abdominal wall surgery within the department of surgery at the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville focuses on the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of all hernias, whether routine or complex. We also manage complications from previous surgery such as mesh infections and enterocutaneous fistulas.

Patient Care

At UF, we believe in a patient-centered approach to care. Our team focuses on the needs and wishes of each individual patient and provides comprehensive treatment in a supportive environment. Our surgeons, nurses and support staff work together to ensure that patients receive the highest level of care and the best possible outcomes. We strive to improve the quality of life of our patients and understand that may look different for each individual patient. Our goal is to provide high-quality, compassionate care to improve our patients’ overall quality of life.

Surgical Expertise

With years of experience in the operating room and knowledge of the most advanced techniques, our surgeons have a success rate among the highest in the nation. Our fellowship-trained surgeons provide the latest surgical techniques and a high level of experience with minimally invasive approaches, such as robotic and laparoscopic surgery, that reduce recovery times for patients.

Multidisciplinary Care

Hernias are a complex condition that have a significant impact on patients’ quality of life. Treatment is multifaceted and requires a comprehensive team approach. At UF, we provide surgical care that encompasses not only the operation but entire perioperative course. Our surgeons collaborate with medical doctors, physical therapists, dieticians and radiologists to provide comprehensive hernia care. To promote collaboration and unity in our patient care, providers review patient cases in a multidisciplinary hernia conference.

Research

Our commitment to patient care is only matched by our dedication to research. The hernia team of researchers are at the forefront of the latest advancements in hernia surgery and are proud to be a part of the ongoing effort to improve surgical techniques and outcomes. Our research efforts also include collaboration with other leading institutions across the country, ensuring that we are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in abdominal wall surgery.

Education

As part of Florida’s flagship academic health center, our University of Florida physicians are dedicated to advancing the field of hernia surgery through our educational efforts. Our residents and fellows receive a comprehensive training experience that includes hands-on surgical training, didactic lectures and opportunities for research and publication. With dedicated guidance and mentorship, we are training the next generation of abdominal wall surgeons to provide the highest level of care to their patients.

Faculty

Timothy S. Hester, DO, FACS, DABS

Timothy S. Hester, DO, FACS, DABS

Associate Professor
Associate Chief Medical Information Officer, UF Health Jacksonville; Assistant Dean for Clinical Informatics

Ruchir Puri, MBBS (MD), MS, FACS

Ruchir Puri, MBBS (MD), MS, FACS

Associate Professor
Program Director, General Surgery Residency; Associate Program Director, Advanced GI Minimally Invasive Surgery Fellowship

Contact Us

For information on the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville section of abdominal wall surgery, please contact:

Address

Section of abdominal wall surgery
UF College of Medicine – Jacksonville
653 West 8th Street
2nd Floor, Faculty Clinic
Jacksonville, FL 32209