Dr. Stephen Laga is a highly respected Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon with over 40 years of experience in the medical field. After earning his BS in Physics from Adelphi University and his MD from St. Louis University School of Medicine, Dr. Stephen Laga completed his general surgery residency at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center and a fellowship in cardiovascular surgery at Baylor College of Medicine.
Board-certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, Stephen Laga MD has held numerous positions in prestigious hospitals and is currently affiliated with Freeman Hospital West in Joplin, Missouri.
In this exclusive interview, Dr. Stephen Laga shares his insights on professional growth, adaptability, and the challenges of his demanding career.
Can you describe your typical day as a Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon and how you maintain productivity?
My typical day as a Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon is highly structured and demanding. I usually start early, reviewing patient cases and preparing for scheduled surgeries. Most days involve performing complex procedures like heart bypass surgeries or treating aortic aneurysms. Between surgeries, I conduct patient consultations, collaborate with my medical team, and stay updated on the latest research. To maintain productivity, I prioritize tasks, delegate when appropriate, and ensure I’m always prepared for each procedure. I also make time for continued learning and staying current with medical advancements.
How do you stay informed about industry trends and emerging technologies in your field?
Staying informed about industry trends and emerging technologies is crucial in my field. I regularly attend medical conferences, participate in professional societies like the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, and engage in continuous medical education. I also dedicate time to reading peer-reviewed journals and discussing new techniques with colleagues. My experience at institutions like Baylor College of Medicine has instilled in me the importance of being at the forefront of medical innovation.
Can you share a significant challenge you faced early in your career and how you overcame it?
A significant challenge I faced early in my career was performing my first aortic dissection surgery. The complexity and high-stakes nature of the procedure were daunting. I overcame this by thoroughly preparing, consulting with more experienced colleagues, and remaining calm under pressure. The successful outcome of this surgery not only saved the patient’s life but also gave me the confidence to continue specializing in difficult cardiothoracic cases.
How do you approach starting a new project or tackling a new challenge?
When starting a new project, whether it’s a complex surgical case or a research initiative, I approach it methodically. First, I gather all relevant information and consult with experts if needed. Then, I develop a comprehensive plan, anticipating potential challenges. I believe in thorough preparation and always considering the patient’s best interests. This approach, inspired by my mentor Dr. Michael DeBakey, has served me well throughout my career.
Can you describe a recent tough decision you had to make and how you would handle it differently today?
One of the toughest decisions I’ve had to make recently involved whether to proceed with a high-risk surgery on a patient with multiple comorbidities. After extensive consultation with the patient, their family, and my medical team, we decided to proceed. The outcome was positive, but it reinforced the importance of clear communication and shared decision-making in complex cases. If faced with a similar situation today, I would approach it the same way, emphasizing thorough discussion and informed consent.
What was the worst job you ever had, and what did you learn from it?
The worst job I ever had was probably during my early residency years, when I had to work extremely long hours with little sleep. However, this experience taught me the value of endurance, time management, and the importance of maintaining focus even under exhausting conditions. These lessons have been invaluable throughout my surgical career.
What’s a skill you taught yourself and how did you do it?
One skill I taught myself was advanced statistical analysis for medical research. I realized its importance for interpreting clinical trial data and improving patient outcomes. I learned through a combination of online courses, textbooks, and practical application in my research projects. This self-taught skill has greatly enhanced my ability to contribute to evidence-based medicine.
Who has had the greatest impact on your career? What about your personal life?
Dr. Michael DeBakey has had the greatest impact on my career. His innovative spirit, surgical expertise, and commitment to patient care have been a constant inspiration. In my personal life, my wife of 45 years has been my steadfast support, helping me maintain a work-life balance. My children’s successes in their respective fields continually motivate me to strive for excellence in my own.
To what do you attribute your success? What is your personal philosophy?
I believe my success stems from a combination of factors: an unwavering commitment to patient care, a constant drive for improvement and learning, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. My philosophy of putting patient needs first and striving for excellence in all aspects of my work has been crucial. Additionally, the support of my family and the inspiration from mentors like Dr. DeBakey have played significant roles.
What’s one book you think everyone should read?
The one book I recommend everyone should read is “If” by Rudyard Kipling. This poem, which I often reference for managing stress and maintaining balance, encapsulates many of the values I hold dear: perseverance, integrity, and resilience. It offers profound wisdom on how to navigate life’s challenges while maintaining one’s character and composure. In my field, where decisions can have life-altering consequences, the principles outlined in “If” serve as a valuable guide for both personal and professional conduct.
Dr. Stephen Laga’s insights provide a glimpse into the demanding yet rewarding world of cardiothoracic and vascular surgery. His dedication to patient care, continuous learning, and professional growth serves as an inspiration to aspiring medical professionals and seasoned practitioners alike.
We thank Dr. Stephen Laga for taking the time to share his experiences and wisdom in this interview.
