Dr. Pontoriero was drawn to a surgical specialty very early in his medical education because he liked working with his hands. “I still enjoy the excitement and challenge of performing acute procedures,” he reflects after 14 years as a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon. From the operating room to the board room, Dr. Pontoriero thrives on the diverse range of responsibilities he undertakes in a single day -- performing procedures, being available to patients in his busy private practice, following the latest medical literature and research, and tackling an array of meetings and administrative duties that come with his position as President of the Clara Maass Medical Staff.
It is important in any medical specialty to stay informed about the latest research and technology, but in the field of vascular surgery, the last decade has brought extraordinary advances. Board certified in general and cardiothoracic surgery, Dr. Pontoriero has seen a major shift from the traditional open surgery he learned as a resident to less invasive procedures such as stenting, angioplasty and other catheter-based techniques. “Our group practice puts a strong emphasis on continuing education,” he notes. “It would be almost impossible to dedicate the time necessary for continued training without partners who provide seamless care for the patients while another attends seminars and courses.”
Dr. Pontoriero’s mentor was Franklin Gerard, MD, former Director of Surgery and Director of Division of Thoracic Surgery at Clara Maass Medical Center, and founder of the New Jersey Chapter of the American Thoracic Society. “I joined Dr. Gerard’s practice and apprenticed with him before assuming the clinical responsibilities of the practice when he retired,” says Dr. Pontoriero.
Dr. Pontoriero is passionate about providing a center of excellence in thoracic and vascular surgery at Clara Maass Medical Center. “I want to pass on a strong legacy to the young energetic surgeons who will follow me.”
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Michael Pontoriero, MD
