Dr. Pigazzi is known for the world’s first robot-assisted tumor removal for rectal cancer and is driving research in the field of early-onset colon cancer.
IRVINE, Calif., August 20, 2024–(BUSINESS WIRE)–City of Hope Orange County, part of one of the largest and most progressive cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States, today announced that world-renowned colorectal surgeon Alessio Pigazzi, MD, Ph.D., has joined the organization as Clinical Professor of Surgery, Chief Medical Director of Colorectal Surgery and Vice Chair for Clinical Network Affairs in the Department of Surgery.
Dr. Pigazzi performed the world’s first robotic tumor resection for rectal cancer two decades ago at City of Hope in Duarte, California, revolutionizing the treatment of the disease. In his new role, Dr. Pigazzi will lead a team of surgeons and researchers specializing in complex colon, rectal and anal cancers. He will advance research on early-onset colorectal cancer and minimally invasive techniques to improve recovery after surgery, and oversee optimal access and utilization of surgical services.
“Dr. Pigazzi is an exceptionally talented surgical leader and pioneer whose expertise has transformed his field and enhanced our collective ability to treat complex cancers and improve survival rates,” said Edward S. Kim, MD, MBA, chief medical officer of the City of Hope Orange County, deputy chief medical officer of the City of Hope National Medical Center and chair of the chief medical officer of the Construction Industries Alliance City of Hope Orange County. “We welcome him as a widely respected clinician and internationally recognized researcher who will further advance our ability to provide excellent patient care and make groundbreaking advances in cancer research.”
Dr. Pigazzi is known for his expertise in laparoscopic, robotic and open surgical techniques. He is also one of a small group of surgeons skilled in cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), a cutting-edge procedure that applies heated chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity after cancerous tumors are removed. The procedure may improve long-term outcomes and provide more treatment options for patients with inoperable or advanced cancer.
“This designation as City of Hope Orange County is like a homecoming for me,” said Dr. Pigazzi. “I am truly impressed with the comprehensive cancer care that City of Hope provides – from the multidisciplinary clinics to integrative oncology to the depth and breadth of advanced treatments, clinical trials and the latest technology available to patients and their families. This level of cancer-related expertise, groundbreaking research and patient support makes City of Hope the best place for cancer patients.”
Annette Walker, president of City of Hope Orange County, said the organization welcomes Dr. Pigazzi to its roster of world-renowned cancer experts. City of Hope was recently ranked among the nation’s top five for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report..
“As we prepare to open Orange County’s only hospital focused exclusively on treating and curing cancer in 2025, City of Hope is ensuring cancer patients have access to groundbreaking cancer research and the most advanced, life-saving treatments,” Walker said. “Patients in Orange County and beyond will benefit from Dr. Pigazzi’s clinical excellence and patient-centered approach.”
Dr. Pigazzi’s research includes neoadjuvant therapies for colon and rectal cancer, in which treatments are given before cancer surgery to reduce the size of a tumor or destroy cancer cells that have spread. He is also focused on expanding the capabilities of minimally invasive and robotic surgery with the goal of making these procedures more accessible and effective for a wider range of patients.
In addition, he is currently leading a study on the role of dietary sugar in the development of early-stage colon cancer, a national and regional trend recently covered in a report by the City of Hope Orange County.
Dr. Pigazzi is a founding member of the Clinical Robotic Surgery Association, a member of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, and a member of the Society of Surgical Oncology.
Dr. Pigazzi earned his medical degree and doctorate from Boston University School of Medicine. He completed his internship and residency in general surgery at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. He also completed a fellowship in minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic, bariatric, and robotic surgery) at Hackensack Medical Center in Hackensack, New Jersey, and a fellowship in colorectal surgery at UCI Medical Center in Orange, California.
“City of Hope is at the forefront of surgical advances and a world leader in robotic-assisted techniques,” said Yuman Fong, MD, Sangiacomo Family Chair in Surgical Oncology at City of Hope and Director of the Center for Surgical Innovation. “We are excited to have Dr. Pigazzi back as our colleague at City of Hope, where his surgical experience and immense knowledge will enhance the exceptional outcomes of our patients.”
About City of Hope
City of Hope’s mission is to provide hope to all affected by cancer and diabetes. Founded in 1913, City of Hope has grown to become one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States and a leading research center for diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. City of Hope’s research has been the basis for numerous breakthrough cancer drugs, as well as human synthetic insulin and monoclonal antibodies. With an independent, National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center at its core, City of Hope offers patients a uniquely integrated model that includes cancer care, research and development, academic education and training, and innovation initiatives. City of Hope’s growing national system includes its Los Angeles campus, a network of clinical care facilities throughout Southern California, a new cancer center in Orange County, California, and cancer treatment centers and outpatient facilities in the Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix areas. City of Hope’s affiliated organizations include the Translational Genomics Research Institute and AccessHopeTMFor more information about City of Hope, follow us on Facebook, XYouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn.
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