BiliaryTractCancer near Monroe, NC

Biography: Dr. Samuel Dartey-Hayford, MD is a Pulmonology Specialist who practices in Charlotte, NC. He is 60 years old and has been practicing for 31 years. Dr. Samuel Dartey-Hayford, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center.

Biography: I am a surgical oncologist with special training in the care of breast cancer patients. My team and I have locations in Huntersville and Charlotte, making it easier for patients across the area to access high-quality breast cancer care close to home. \n I use advanced techniques for breast cancer surgery, including breast conservation (lumpectomy) with and without cosmetic adjustments (oncoplastic techniques), mastectomy, nipple-sparing mastectomy and the most up-to-date procedures for removing lymph nodes from under the arm. \n One of the things I enjoy most about Novant Health is that I work closely with a multidisciplinary team of experts - from medical and radiation oncologists to specialized breast cancer nurse navigators, therapists and counselors - and we are all focused on providing the highest quality breast cancer care in the clinic and in the operating room. \n My clinical and research interests include the treatment and biology of breast cancer in the young and elderly. I enjoy doing research, including serving as the principal investigator for a national clinical trial at Novant Health. In addition to my clinical work, I have written more than 30 articles for peer-reviewed clinical and professional publications. \n My hobbies include cooking, boating, exercising, reading and traveling, as well as spending time with my wonderful husband and children.

Biography: I am a surgeon and breast cancer survivor who specializes in treating gynecologic cancer. Taking care of women and being a part of their complete cancer journey are areas of my work that I love. I chose medicine as a career because I believe it is the best way to integrate my interest in science, solving problems and helping people and my community. I specialize in gynecologic oncology because it provides a unique opportunity to combine my surgical skills with cancer care, where there is a strong and growing emphasis on caring for the whole patient. \n As lead physician and head of the operating room committee at my clinic, I play a leading role in evaluating surgical techniques to determine which ones work. My status as a fellow of The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists means you can have confidence that I rely on the latest medical guidelines, treatments and techniques in women's healthcare. \n Though I'm a surgeon, I support any therapy that improves outcomes for my patients. At Novant Health, I have spearheaded a clinical trial to help determine whether a new drug therapy improves outcomes for patients with late-stage endometrial cancer. This disease is rarely cured by radiation therapy or surgery alone. \n As a breast cancer survivor, I empathize with the emotions cancer patients experience as they move from diagnosis and treatment to remission, recovery, sometimes relapse, and survival. My approach to care focuses as much on guarding your quality of life in the here and now as on finding a cure for your illness. \n When not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband, son and daughter and our two dogs. My hobbies include long-distance running, music and sports. My husband and I both attended Auburn University and love following their sports teams.

Biography: Growing up I knew I wanted to be part of a profession that gave me a strong sense of purpose and allowed me an opportunity to have a positive and meaningful impact on the lives of others. One of the best places to do that is in the fight against cancer; and one of the best ways to help cancer patients is to involve them in the decisions surrounding their care. \n I take time to help my patients understand their options for getting a diagnosis and treatment for their illness. While being diagnosed with cancer is never easy, my experience has been that patients find this approach empowering and helpful. My 13 years of medical training prepared me well for this educational aspect of my job. \n A great physician is one who continues learning. I accomplish this as a member of the National Gynecological Association and through clinical research. My interest in research started during my fellowship training, when I was awarded grants for ovarian cancer research. Since then, I have logged considerable hours in the lab, researching ovarian cancer vaccines and immunotherapy. I also continue to publish clinical research on ovarian and uterine cancer treatments and outcomes. \n A native of Britain, I moved to Chapel Hill at an early age. I now live in Charlotte with my wife and dog "Moose." My wife and I love playing soccer, spending time with family and friends and working on our house. We also enjoy hiking, particularly when we can do that in Scotland.

Biography: Dr. Michael Melkonian, MD is a General Surgery Specialist who practices in Matthews, NC. He is 56 years old and has been practicing for 30 years. Dr. Michael Melkonian, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Matthews Medical Center.

Biography: Some college classes are forgettable; others stick with you forever. For me, it was a genetics course that captured my interest and ultimately influenced my career path. I loved understanding how our genes make each of us who we are and how they can influence our health. Getting an overview of genetics in that class inspired me to pursue cancer research, attend medical school and eventually specialize in cancer surgery. \n Just like our genes are all unique, I know every persons health is as well. I treat each patient as I want to be treated. That starts with actively listening to their concerns. It continues with carefully considering and explaining their treatment options so they can make well-informed decisions about their health. I value patient feedback as well as feedback from other providers. I am proud to have been recognized by my peers as one of Charlottes top surgical specialists. \n Outside of work, family time is my top priority. My wife and I have two sons. Together, we love learning about other cultures and traveling whenever we get a chance.

Biography: Dr. Louis Zbinden III, MD is a General Surgery Specialist who practices in Charlotte, NC. He is 61 years old and has been practicing for 35 years. Dr. Louis Zbinden III, MD is affiliated with Novant Charlotte NC.

Biography: I am the medical director of surgical oncology at Novant Health Cancer Institute, and co-director of the breast cancer program at Novant Health. \n Having graduated with Alpha Omega Alpha honors from medical school, I am passionate about clinical research and have authored/coauthored many textbook chapters and peer-reviewed articles focused on breast and GI cancer. \n I have been on clinical faculty at Brown University and UNC-Chapel Hill, and served as past president of the NC Chapter of the American College of Surgeons. Other recognitions include being selected as top physician annually in Charlotte Magazine, NC Business Journal and Best Doctors of America. \n I seek to establish trust with each new patient throughout the individualized treatment process, utilizing all the resources available through the Novant Health Cancer Institute.