Dr. Stephen Laga is a Renowned Leader in Cardiothoracic Surgery and Patient Care

Dr. Stephen Laga is a distinguished cardiothoracic surgeon and former U.S. Air Force Major in the Medical Corps, renowned for his extensive experience in general and cardiovascular surgery. His military background instilled in him the discipline, leadership, and precision that continue to define his approach to patient care today. Having earned his medical degree from St. Louis University School of Medicine, Dr. Laga went on to complete his internship at St. Louis University Group Hospitals. His rigorous training included a general surgery residency at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago and a thoracic surgery residency at Baylor College of Medicine, followed by a fellowship in cardiovascular surgery at Baylor College of Medicine. 

Throughout his illustrious career, Stephen Laga, MD, has been affiliated with esteemed institutions, including Froedtert South Medical Group, where he currently practices, as well as several hospitals across Illinois, Louisiana, and Texas. He is board-certified by both the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Thoracic Surgery. Dr. Laga is particularly recognized for his patient-centered approach, emphasizing individualized and evidence-based medical care. In this interview, we delve deeper into his journey, his insights on leadership in medicine, and his philosophy on patient care.

Background and Early Career

Could you tell us about your early career and what inspired you to specialize in cardiothoracic surgery?

From a young age, I was fascinated by the complexities of the human heart and the intricacies of surgery. My journey in medicine began at St. Louis University School of Medicine, where I realized my passion for cardiothoracic surgery. The combination of technical skill and the opportunity to make a significant impact on patients’ lives drew me to this field. My training at institutions like Rush Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine further solidified my commitment to this specialty.

How did your military service influence your approach to patient care and leadership?

Serving as a Major in the U.S. Air Force Medical Corps was a pivotal experience. It taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of leadership in high-pressure environments. The military instilled in me a sense of duty and commitment to patient care, which I carry into my medical practice. It also emphasized the importance of teamwork and clear communication, skills that are crucial in both military and medical settings.

Patient-Centered Care

You are known for your patient-centered approach. How do you ensure that your care is individualized and evidence-based?

The cornerstone of my practice is clear communication with patients and their families. Each patient has unique needs and perspectives, so actively listening to their concerns is essential. I rely on evidence-based medicine to inform my treatment plans, ensuring that every decision is grounded in the latest scientific research. Building trust through transparency and empathy helps me provide care that aligns with each patient’s individual health goals.

What role does active listening play in your patient care philosophy, particularly in emotionally charged or high-risk scenarios?

Active listening is crucial in reducing tension and fostering constructive dialogue. By engaging with the speaker’s perspective and ensuring their feelings are heard, we can shift conversations from blame to problem-solving. This approach facilitates effective conflict resolution, de-escalates anger, and provides a safe space for patients to express their thoughts and concerns.

Leadership and Collaboration

Collaboration is key in a surgical setting. What strategies have you found most effective in fostering collaboration across medical teams?

Implementing interdisciplinary communication protocols, such as regular meetings and shared electronic platforms, is essential. By fostering a culture of respect and open dialogue, we encourage continuous learning and improvement. Regular feedback and recognition of team successes further enhance collaboration and teamwork. It’s vital to establish shared goals and ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.

Can you share an example of a complex surgical case that required seamless coordination across departments and how it shaped your leadership style?

In complex procedures like coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or valve replacements, coordination is critical. These cases require careful planning with staff, anesthesiologists, and other team members. Ensuring that all necessary equipment and representatives for the products we use are available before the operation is crucial. My leadership style has evolved to prioritize thorough preparation and clear communication. This has resulted in minimal complications, shorter hospital stays, and high patient satisfaction.

Communication Techniques

How do you adjust your communication style when engaging with different audiences, such as junior residents versus seasoned surgeons or patients?

Each audience requires a tailored communication approach. With junior residents, I often use the Socratic method to encourage critical thinking. For seasoned surgeons and hospital executives, I employ clear, concise, and compassionate language, ensuring that all necessary information is conveyed. When speaking with patients, empathy and understanding are paramount. Recognizing the varying levels of knowledge and adjusting my communication accordingly helps in effectively conveying the necessary information.

What communication tools have proven most effective for aligning surgical teams and consulting physicians on treatment plans?

Clarity and conciseness are essential. I avoid jargon when possible and emphasize active listening and shared decision-making. The SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) technique is particularly effective in ensuring clarity and focusing on critical information. It helps in maintaining patient-centered interviews and in building rapport through empathy and careful attention to non-verbal cues.

Expertise and Achievements of Laga

Dr. Laga, your career spans several decades with numerous accomplishments. What do you consider your most significant achievement in cardiothoracic surgery?

Reflecting on my career, I am particularly proud of the advancements I have contributed to in minimally invasive surgical techniques and the development of comprehensive care protocols for post-operative recovery. These efforts have significantly reduced patient recovery time and hospital stays, contributing to better overall outcomes. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of performing over 6,000 open-heart surgeries, and the positive impact on patients’ lives remains a profound source of motivation for me.

How have you seen the field of cardiothoracic surgery evolve during your tenure, and what role have you played in these changes?

The field has undergone remarkable transformations, particularly in the areas of technology and patient management. I have been an advocate for integrating new technologies, such as robotic-assisted surgeries and advanced imaging techniques, to enhance precision and safety in surgical procedures. Additionally, I’ve been involved in research focusing on patient-centered care, advocating for approaches that prioritize not just the surgical outcome but the patient’s overall well-being.

Vision for the Future

What is your vision for the future of cardiothoracic surgery, and what innovations do you foresee transforming the field in the coming years?

I envision a future where cardiothoracic surgery becomes even less invasive, with shorter recovery times and improved patient outcomes through the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning. These technologies hold the potential to revolutionize pre-operative planning and intra-operative guidance, making surgeries safer and more efficient. Moreover, I anticipate that advancements in personalized medicine will allow us to tailor treatments more precisely to individual patient needs, further enhancing our ability to provide optimal care.

As a leader in the field, how do you believe young surgeons can best prepare for the future of cardiothoracic surgery?

Young surgeons should embrace continuous learning and be open to multidisciplinary collaboration. The field is rapidly evolving, and staying current with the latest research and technological advancements is crucial. I encourage budding surgeons to cultivate a patient-centered mindset and engage in lifelong learning through research and specialized training. Developing strong communication skills is also essential for effective teamwork and patient interaction.

Conclusion

Dr. Stephen Laga shares profound insights into cardiothoracic surgery, highlighting his commitment to advancing the field through innovation and patient-centered care. His vision for the future emphasizes the importance of integrating new technologies and personalized approaches to improve surgical outcomes. As he continues to inspire the next generation of surgeons, Dr. Laga remains a pivotal figure in shaping the future of cardiovascular and thoracic medicine.