Thoracic surgeons at WashU Medicine use the latest advances to provide world-class respiratory care.
Our thoracic surgeons are leading experts in treating lung cancer, esophageal diseases, and other problems with the lungs and respiratory system.
We are among the world’s most experienced lung transplant specialists, with over 2,000 transplants performed by our team at WashU Medicine. Our thoracic surgeons offer minimally invasive treatment options that can reduce recovery times and get people back to living their lives. We also specialize in treating hiatal hernias, swallowing disorders and chest trauma.

Top hospitals in Missouri

Expert physicians

personalized care
Call us for an appointment: 314-362-7260
Our expertise
Whether you seek treatment for lung cancer, have benign esophageal disease or need help with lung volume reduction, we offer specialized care from providers who are leaders in their fields.
- Adult pectus excavatum
- Benign esophageal disease
- Esophageal cancer
- Hyperhidrosis
- Lung cancer
- Lung transplant
- Lung volume reduction
- Transcervical thymectomy
Why choose us for thoracic care
- We are consistently recognized as the top hospitals in St. Louis and Missouri, and among the top hospitals in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals rankings.
- We are part of a team of expert WashU Medicine physicians, providing care across all specialties.
- We perform clinical trials and scientific research, giving you access to the latest knowledge and techniques.


Among the nation’s best
Lung disease care at WashU Medicine and Barnes-Jewish Hospital is consistently ranked among the best in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report.
As part of Siteman Cancer Center, we are one of the top centers in the U.S. for lung cancer care.
Our thoracic surgeons also see patients at convenient locations across the St. Louis area.
Our locations
Our team

Whitney S. Brandt, MD
Assistant Professor of Surgery
Section of Thoracic Surgery
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery

Benjamin D. Kozower, MD, MPH
Professor of Surgery
Section of Thoracic Surgery
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery
Vice Chair for Patient Safety and Quality Improvement, Department of Surgery
- Phone: 314-362-7260

Daniel Kreisel, MD, PhD
G. Alexander Patterson, MD/Mid-America Transplant Distinguished Endowed Chair in Lung Transplantation
Professor of Pathology & Immunology
Section of Thoracic Surgery
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery
Surgical Director, Lung Transplant Program
Vice Chair for Research, Department of Surgery
- Phone: 314-362-7260

Bryan F. Meyers, MD, MPH
Patrick and Joy Williamson Professor of Surgery
Section of Thoracic Surgery
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Phone: 314-362-7260

Ruben G. Nava Bahena, MD
Associate Professor of Surgery
Section of Thoracic Surgery
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Phone: 314-362-7260

G. Alexander Patterson, MD
Joseph Bancroft Professor of Surgery
Section of Thoracic Surgery
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Phone: 314-362-7260