#United States #Miami #Nicklaus Children's #David M. Kalfa #Pediatric Cardiac

Dr. David M. Kalfa to Lead Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgery at Nicklaus Children's

In a significant development for pediatric healthcare, Nicklaus Children's Health System is excited to announce that Dr. David M. Kalfa will be joining the esteemed team as the chief of the Section of Cardiovascular Surgery and co-director of the Nicklaus Children's Heart Institute, effective September 1. This groundbreaking appointment marks the inaugural joint hire in a newly forged academic partnership with the Florida International University (FIU) Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

Dr. Kalfa is renowned for his innovative techniques in minimally invasive surgery for congenital heart defects. He has received recognition for his expertise in complex neonatal cardiac surgeries and the development of advanced pediatric valve repairs. Additionally, he has an impressive track record of research aimed at improving patient safety, enhancing long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes, and optimizing the quality of life for children afflicted with cardiac defects.

He is currently at the forefront of several multicenter clinical studies in both the United States and Europe. Among these initiatives is an international project focused on the creation of next-generation pediatric heart valves. Dr. Kalfa’s research areas extend to cutting-edge domains such as AI-guided surgical planning, regenerative medicine, robotic surgery, and transplant innovation.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Dr. Kalfa stated, "Joining Nicklaus Children's Heart Institute is a unique opportunity where I can blend my clinical practices with groundbreaking research. The institute’s commitment to innovation and excellence resonates deeply with my professional mission."

Matthew A. Love, the president and CEO of Nicklaus Children's Health System, highlighted the addition of Dr. Kalfa as a pivotal moment, stating that his extensive experience and devotion to pediatric cardiac care align perfectly with the organization's goal to enhance healthcare for children globally. The Nicklaus Children's Heart Institute has gained recognition as a leader in the treatment of congenital heart disease, boasting a remarkable 97.5% surgical survival rate since 2018, placing it among the best-performing programs in Florida and leading South Florida healthcare.

In this influential position, Dr. Kalfa will manage all clinical, operational, and quality initiatives within the Section of Cardiovascular Surgery. As co-director, his responsibilities will also include strategizing research, patient care, and education for the Nicklaus Children's Heart Institute, strengthening its national and regional leadership position in pediatric cardiac surgery.

Before this new chapter, Dr. Kalfa served as the Florence Irving Associate Professor of Surgery at the Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York City. His impactful leadership extended to NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, where he spearheaded various pediatric cardiac innovation projects.

Originally hailing from France, Dr. Kalfa earned his medical degree from the University of Marseille and completed his Ph.D. in cardiovascular tissue engineering at Paris Descartes University. He treated young patients not only in France but also completed advanced training in Quebec, Canada, thereby accruing invaluable international experience.

Dr. Kalfa joins an already exemplary staff of specialists at Nicklaus Children's, further enhancing the leadership pipeline that the partnership with FIU aims to develop. Dr. Juan Cendan, the dean of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, praised Dr. Kalfa’s appointment, reiterating that it emphasizes their shared commitment to attracting top-notch pediatric specialists to revolutionize care for children.

The Nicklaus Children's Health System has been a cornerstone for pediatric healthcare in Florida for 75 years. The system is noted for providing a comprehensive range of pediatric services across multiple clinics and hospitals while being a beacon of hope for families in need.

Nicklaus Children's is more than just a healthcare provider; it represents a community of support for young patients and their families, offering an extensive network of care not limited to the hospital environment. As Dr. Kalfa integrates into this dynamic framework, the future of pediatric cardiac care looks promising and full of possibilities for innovation and improved treatment methods.