Multidisciplinary surgical team achieves successful outcome in complex cancer case

Updated: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 11:46 AM

Multidisciplinary surgical team achieves successful outcome in complex cancer case

Precision, collaboration and expertise drive life-saving surgical success at BGMC/GVI.

Buffalo General Medical Center/Gates Vascular Institute (BGMC/GVI) showcased the power of multidisciplinary care with a complex, high-risk cancer surgery. The procedure involved the removal of a kidney and tumor, requiring advanced vascular precision and coordinated expertise across multiple surgical specialties.

The surgical team included Jeffrey A. Spencer, MD, urologist overseeing the patient's cancer care; Ryan Bird, MD, vascular surgeon; John L. Butsch, BA, MS, MD, FACS, chief of robotic surgery; Awad El-Ashry, MD, cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon; and Ahmad Zaaroura, MD, FACS, multi-organ transplant surgeon providing hepatobiliary expertise. Each physician played a critical role in ensuring a safe, precise and successful operation.

Given the complexity of the case, meticulous planning and collaboration were critical. The combined efforts of the surgical, anesthesia and operating room teams allowed every step to be performed with precision, minimizing risk and ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.

"This case shows what is possible when specialists come together with a shared focus on the best outcome possible for the patient," said Ryan Bird, MD, vascular surgeon at Kaleida Health. "Every member of the team brought unique expertise, and through careful coordination and planning, we were able to navigate a complex procedure safely. Most importantly, this collaboration ensures our community has access to the highest level of care close to home."

The patient is recovering well, a testament to the coordination, expertise and dedication of the teams from BGMC/GVI and WNY Urology. This case highlights Kaleida Health's commitment to delivering advanced, coordinated care close to home. By bringing together specialized surgeons and skilled perioperative teams, Kaleida Health ensures that patients with the most complex conditions receive the highest-quality care.