Leonard Lee, MD

Leonard Y. Lee, M.D. was recruited to Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in 2012. Over a period of 12 years, cardiac surgery volume has enjoyed a nearly 80% growth in volume to 1700 from 950 cases. He is nationally recognized for his leadership and use of innovative ways of treating valvular heart disease with minimally invasive techniques (one of a handful across the country). A great cohesiveness has been achieved to include any and all individuals that participate in the care of the patients providing a true sense of team driven health care.

Although Dr. Lee fulfills the role of James W. Mackenzie, M.D., Professor and Chair for the Department of Surgery with responsibility of over 80 faculty and 120 staff members across 10 divisions, he has maintained productivity in terms of education, research, and clinical responsibilities despite growing administrative demands. Research efforts have continued, both clinical and basic, with over 200 published peer reviewed articles and an NIH grant to fund the basic science research. As a mentor and educator, he has received high reviews from students and residents alike despite growing administrative responsibilities. Finally, Dr. Lee remains one of the most productive physicians in the school and hospital, personally performing in excess of 350 heart surgeries per year.