Richard L. Whelan, MD

Description

Richard Lawrance Whelan, MD, is chief of colorectal surgery for both the Northwell Health system and the Northwell Cancer Institute. An early supporter of minimally invasive colorectal surgery, Dr. Whelan has performed over 3, 000 laparoscopic colorectal resections. Also an avid researcher, he’s the principal investigator for an FDA approved PIPAC (pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy) study at Northwell, the first clinical trial of its kind in the nation. The new treatment technique involves administering chemotherapy laparoscopically in the form of a pressurized aerosol—offering hope for some patients whose cancers have spread. “My research background has taught me not to take things at face value—to challenge the status quo and be bold enough to explore new possibilities, ” he says. Previously, Dr. Whelan was chief of colorectal surgery at Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital, St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital, and Mount Sinai West (formerly Roosevelt Hospital) for a span of 27 years. Joining Northwell in 2019, Dr. Whelan oversees a team of about 30 colorectal surgeons. “We’re creating an integrated community of doctors that can learn from one another and continue to drive the field forward, ” he says. He’s also part of a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, nutritionists, and other specialists who come together to create personalized cancer treatment plans across Northwell. He views his patients as equal partners in their care—taking the time to get to know them, explaining all the options, and guiding them in their journey. “I treat my patients like I would treat my own family members, ” he says. Dr. Whelan has maintained a collaborative basic science lab and clinical research unit for over two decades and has authored more than 150 peer reviewed publications. One of his areas of focus is advanced endoscopy (ESD) methods for precancerous, large polyps, which can now be removed endoscopically. Dr. Whelan is also passionate about training the next generation of doctors—leading cross-discipline fellowships and teaching at Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. “Everything I do is for my patients, ” he says. “Seeing their strength and courage, and that of their family members, is humbling. The perseverance of the human spirit never ceases to amaze and inspire me.”