Sarah Choi, MD, is a surgeon at Keck Medicine of USC, who specializes in treating benign and malignant colon and rectal diseases, including diverticulitis, complex polyps, colon and rectal cancer, anal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Dr. Choi also sees patients for pilonidal disease, pelvic floor disorders and anorectal disorders, such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures and fistulas. She is highly experienced in minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted procedures, laparoscopic surgery and advanced endoscopy.
Dr. Choi sees people during their most vulnerable and challenging times and treats all patients as if they were her own family members. She strives to make all her patients feel comfortable and understood. Dr. Choi prioritizes education and takes the time to ensure each patient understands their condition and treatment options. She works collaboratively with her patients to design treatment plans that fit their individual needs.
Her research is focused on improving minimally invasive techniques for colon and rectal surgery, as well as advancing treatments for IBD and diverticulitis. Dr. Choi has presented her research findings at national conferences and published multiple peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. She is an assistant professor of clinical surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, teaching the most innovative techniques to the next generation of physicians.
Dr. Choi earned her medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine and completed her general surgery residency at the Cleveland Clinic. She then went on to complete her fellowship training in colorectal surgery at Keck Medicine and Los Angeles General, formerly known as Los Angeles County + USC Medical Center.
Outside of work, Dr. Choi is passionate about traveling and exploring different cultures and cuisines. She especially loves the local food and culture scene in Southern California, with its diverse population and myriad of things to see and do. She competed as a classical pianist throughout her childhood and still enjoys playing piano. Dr. Choi is fluent in both English and Korean.
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“On a practical level, I believe in using minimally invasive techniques whenever I can, so my patients can return to their families and their normal lives as soon as possible. It is just as important to provide empathetic, supportive care throughout their health care journey.”