IntestinalDiverticulitis near Waynesville, NC

Biography: From a young age, I have been fascinated by science and the human body. This drove me to pursue a career in surgery, where I could use my interests to enhance the well-being of others. Throughout my journey, I've found immense joy in connecting with my patients and their families, understanding their unique perspectives and supporting their health. \n My approach to healthcare is patient-centered. I believe in thorough communication, ensuring that my patients are fully informed and empowered to make decisions about their health. \n As the only surgeon in Western North Carolina with specialized training in endocrine surgery, including procedures involving the thyroid, parathyroid and adrenal glands, I am dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care. By doing a high volume of these procedures and continuously refining my skills, I strive to minimize risks and optimize outcomes for my patients. \n Beyond the operating room, I enjoy pottery, gardening, and hiking - activities that Asheville is wonderful for. Since relocating to Asheville in 2018, I've embraced the vibrant community and its unique charm, which has helped me both personally and professionally.

Biography: Dr. Thomas Lugus, MD is a Family Practitioner who practices in Hendersonville, NC. He is 68 years old and has been practicing for 40 years. Dr. Thomas Lugus, MD is affiliated with AdventHealth Hendersonville.

Biography: As a surgeon, I have been trained to help people by excising and repairing. However, as a surgical oncologist, the most important part of my job is to determine whether surgery will actually help someone. This is often a balance of risk and benefits, and is different for every person who has their own goals and risk tolerance. Surgery is often a crucial component of an attempt to cure many cancers; however, we are sometimes able to offer surgery to prolong life or improve quality of life, even in the absence of cure. \n I have wanted to be a surgeon for as long as I can remember. My father is a surgeon, which certainly helped inspire and guide my career as a surgical oncologist. I love surgical oncology because I get to build a long-term relationship with a patient. Each patient also may present his or her own unique presentation for which I can work with other oncologic specialties and the most recently published data to come up with a specific treatment plan. \n I have training in complex malignancies, offer minimally invasive/robotic surgery, and value open communication and joint decision-making with my patients. I attend multiple regional tumor boards each week and national conferences yearly. \n I graduated magna cum laude from Purdue University's honors program with Phi Beta Kappa honors. I moved on to Northwestern University in Chicago where I served as administrative chief general surgery resident during my general surgery training there. After completing specialty fellowship training at University of Tennessee, I traveled to Asheville with my wife and three children, where we can hike, and I can fly-fish.