CARMS Profile - Dr. Joseph Mamazza

Where did you train?
I trained at Mcgill University and the University of Iowa

Why do you work in Ottawa?
I originally was recruited here as Chair of the Division of general surgery in 2005 and was asked to refocus the Division toward Minimally invasive Surgery and to that end we created a very successful MIS fellowship program and recruited many advanced MIS surgeons to reshape all the subspecialties. I now like to sit back and watch as the newer generation develops great programs with a focus on MIS. Ottawa itself is a great city to have raised my children in and is a nice and peaceful place to live in. But my kids, who are in there 20s tell me it's an exciting place to live and work in.

What do you like about training residents?
I love trying to impart the nuances and technical aspects of performing surgery, especially advanced laparoscopic surgery: as well as teaching an appreciation for surgical anatomy. There is nothing better than watching a resident achieve surgical proficiency over the course of his or her residency

What is your favourite thing to teach?
MIS skills

What is the thing you're the most proud of in your professional life?
My Academic career in MIS and having developed many of the advanced MIS procedures we do routinely today

What do you do outside of work?
When I'm not working I cook and am constantly creating new versions of classic Italian dishes. I do most of the cooking at home. This also gives my wife the time to focus on her career. Before COVID travelling 

What is your vision for the future of the residency program? 
I would like to see the program move to develop a more robust technical skills program especially during the first 2 years of training

Tell us something people should know about you?
More than intelligence, I value character, honesty and dedication to work.