Meet Luke Putnam, MD

Dr. Putnam is a board-certified surgeon at Keck Medicine of USC who specializes in minimally invasive techniques, with an emphasis on upper gastrointestinal and hernia surgery.

Here’s what you won’t find on his resume.

He’s working in his dream job.

“During the 4th grade, a classmate’s dad shared a video of a heart surgery, and ever since then I knew I wanted to become a surgeon. Along the way, I also pursued biomedical engineering and international development work, but it all eventually led to becoming a minimally invasive surgeon.”

At home, it’s all about the kids.

“When I’m not working, I’m usually playing with my four sons and spending time with my wife. With four boys running around, there’s never a dull moment in our home.”

Overseas adventures are calling.

“My bucket list items include trekking in New Zealand and taking an anniversary trip to Italy with my wife. I’m also excited to teach my boys how to surf.”

Take him skiing.

“My favorite travel destination is Canada because I love heli-skiing, which involves taking a helicopter to the most beautiful, untouched slopes on the mountain.”

He is bilingual.

“I completed part of my medical school training in Mexico, and I speak fluent Spanish.”

The most influential role model in his life is his dad.

“My dad is a wonderful example of a loving, faithful and hardworking man.”

Faith is important.

“I enjoy reading the Bible because it is full of wisdom, hope and love.”

Seeing patients thrive is deeply rewarding.

“The most rewarding part of my job is seeing my patients’ quality of life improve. From our first visit to our final postoperative checkup, it’s a privilege to educate and care for my patients through every step of the process.”

The golden rule is his personal code.

“Having been a patient myself several times, I can empathize with each of them. I always treat each person who comes to see me as I would want to be treated. My patients can also rely on me to be calm, thorough and approachable in every interaction.”

His top advice for medical students.

“Pursue a specialty you are passionate about so that your job feels less like work and more like a calling.”

Advancements in robotics have pushed surgery forward.

“The introduction of robotic surgery has been a game changer for my field. It allows us to perform very technical operations through small incisions, which allows for quicker recoveries and shorter hospital stays.”

Why academic medicine?

“I chose to practice at an academic medical center for three reasons. The first is I enjoy teaching. Second, being an academic surgeon requires that I stay up to date on and contribute to the latest advances in the field. Third, I like that I can focus entirely on patient outcomes and not concern myself with the financial side.”

He’s involved in research efforts.

“I have a master’s degree in clinical research, and I enjoy mentoring research fellows, participating in trials and conducting observational studies.”

The team atmosphere at Keck Medicine is second to none.

“Surgery can be a stressful experience, and I’m fortunate to have an incredible team that ensures my patients have the best experience possible.

Overall, our tight-knit team of caregivers really sets Keck Medicine apart. All of us support and encourage one another, from our intake nurses to our surgeons to our discharge coordinators. We’re all dedicated to optimizing our patients’ experiences and outcomes.”

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