University of Chicago

A world-class cancer research program.

The University of Chicago Medicine continues to elevate the quality of cancer survivorship care for our patients by furthering a variety of specialty fields. A component of cancer care rarely addressed in facing the day-to-day challenges of the disease is the reconstructive surgery that follows tumor removal.

David Song, MD, and his team have established a microsurgery fellowship program at the University of Chicago Medicine that aims to train and educate today’s plastic surgeons to develop the skills necessary to perform complex reconstructive operations following cancer surgery. Microsurgery allows surgeons to use microscopes and precision instruments to perform intricate procedures and repair damage to very small structures, such as nerves and capillaries. The Zaccone Family Microsurgery Fellowship provides philanthropic support for one year of training under the leadership of Dr. Song. Currently the only microsurgery training opportunity in the Chicago area, this fellowship enables more surgeons to be equipped with the skills and techniques needed to improve outcomes and quality of life for patients undergoing breast reconstruction and other complex reconstructive operations all across the country.