Biography
Dr. Valerie Rusch is one of the most influential figures in the history of mesothelioma surgery. During her decades at Memorial Sloan Kettering, she led the development of the international mesothelioma staging system used worldwide, served as Chief of the Thoracic Surgery Service, and published over 400 research papers. Dr. Rusch's work on the IASLC mesothelioma staging project established the framework that surgeons and oncologists use globally to classify and treat mesothelioma.
Education & Training
- Medical Degree — Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons (Medicine)
- Residency — University of Washington (General Surgery)
- Fellowship — University of Washington (Cardiothoracic Surgery)
Specialties & Procedures
Clinical Specialties
- Thoracic Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
Surgical Procedures
Board Certifications
- American Board of Thoracic Surgery
- American Board of Surgery
Research Focus
Staging systems for mesothelioma, surgical outcomes research, and multimodal treatment strategies for pleural malignancies.
Notable Publications
- The IASLC Mesothelioma Staging Project. Journal of Thoracic Oncology, 2016.
Treatment Center
Dr. Valerie Rusch practices at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, NY.
Legal Resources for Mesothelioma Patients
Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma after asbestos exposure may be eligible for compensation through asbestos trust funds and legal claims. Over $30 billion remains available in trust funds nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Dr. Rusch contribute to mesothelioma treatment?
Dr. Rusch led the development of the international mesothelioma staging system (IASLC staging project), published over 400 papers, and served as Chief of Thoracic Surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering. She is one of the most influential surgeons in mesothelioma history.