Sam Yoon

In 2021, Sam Yoon took the helm as Chief of the Division of Surgical Oncology and Vice-Chair of Surgical Oncology Research and Education at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. An authority on sarcomas, stomach, and gastroesophageal junction cancers, as well as gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), he has directed numerous pivotal clinical trials. He delivers lectures globally, addressing the severe impact of gastric cancer. This cancer ranks among the top causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, claiming over 750,000 lives annually from more than a million new cases.

His approach to patient care is highly regarded, making him a popular choice for patients across the tri-state area. His consistent inclusion as one of the Best Doctors in America for 2010-2011 and from 2017 to 2020 underscores his reputation for excellence. He consults patients at the CUIMC/Herbert Irving Pavilion in New York City and maintains practices in Bronxville, Cortland Manor, New York, and Englewood, New Jersey.

Dr. Sam Yoon started his higher education at Harvard University, obtaining his undergraduate degree before earning his medical degree from the University of California, San Diego. His postgraduate training was robust, comprising a general surgery residency at Massachusetts General Hospital and a surgical oncology fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, recognized as one of the National Cancer Institute’s Comprehensive Cancer Centers.

Before his current role, he was an Attending Surgeon in the Division of Gastric and Mixed Tumors at Memorial Sloan Kettering and held a professorship at Weill Cornell Medical College. He had previously served as an Associate Professor at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School before moving to Memorial Sloan Kettering in 2012.

His surgical prowess, especially in minimally invasive robotic surgery, is notable. He has performed over 300 procedures, including complex robotic gastrectomies, utilizing advanced technologies that minimize patient discomfort and speed up recovery. His dedication extends into his scholarly activities, having authored over 150 original research articles, book chapters, and reviews. Additionally, he plays a significant role in leading research funded by prominent cancer research organizations, which aim to develop early diagnostic tests and new treatment methods for gastric cancer.

Throughout his career, Sam Yoon has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to improving surgical outcomes and enhancing patient care, solidifying his status as a leading figure in surgical oncology.