Luis I. Ruffolo, M.D.

Dr. Luis Ruffolo is a surgical oncologist specializing in the care of patients with complex cancers, particularly of the liver, pancreas, bile ducts, and gastrointestinal tract. He is dedicated to delivering thoughtful, high-quality care and helping patients navigate difficult diagnoses with clarity...

Dr. Luis Ruffolo is a surgical oncologist specializing in the care of patients with complex cancers, particularly of the liver, pancreas, bile ducts, and gastrointestinal tract. He is dedicated to delivering thoughtful, high-quality care and helping patients navigate difficult diagnoses with clarity and empathy.

A Venezuelan-American surgeon-scientist, Dr. Ruffolo earned his medical degree from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. He completed his general surgery residency at the University of Rochester Medical Center, where he also pursued advanced research training in tumor immunology. He then completed fellowship training in surgical oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where he gained extensive expertise in robotic and open surgery for cancers of the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts, including the Whipple procedure.

His clinical work focuses on treating abdominal cancers using advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive and robotic approaches. He works within a multidisciplinary team alongside medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other experts to ensure each patient receives comprehensive, individualized care.

Dr. Ruffolo leads a research program focused on developing new immunotherapies for pancreatic and liver cancers. He has led clinical trials that bring next-generation immunotherapy treatments to patients, expanding the options available to those facing these cancers. His laboratory studies how the body's immune system can be activated to fight cancer, advancing the search for tomorrow's therapies.

Dr. Ruffolo believes that good care starts with listening. He recognizes that a diagnosis of liver, pancreatic, or complex gastrointestinal cancer can be frightening and disorienting, and he takes time to understand each patient's goals, concerns, and priorities, using that perspective to guide treatment decisions. He focuses on being direct and honest while making sure patients feel supported, respected, and fully informed. Fluent in both English and Spanish, he welcomes patients and families to have these conversations in whichever language feels most comfortable. His goal is to help patients feel confident in their care and comfortable asking questions every step of the way.