Biography
Dr. Jeffrey Gander, born in Tampa, Fl, and raised in Scotch Plains, NJ, obtained a Bachelor of Science in biology from The College of New Jersey and attended Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Brunswick, NJ.
Trained in both general and pediatric surgery at Columbia University Medical Center in New York City, Dr. Gander joined UVA Children’s in 2014. His specialization is in pediatric surgery and focuses on advancing techniques for childhood diseases, with emphasis on minimally invasive approaches. His expertise extends to chest wall deformities such as pectus excavatum, congenital diseases such as congenital diaphragmatic hernia, gastroschisis, lung cysts, pediatric tumors, ovarian disorders, and hernias.
Commitment to Health Protection
At UVA Children's, Dr. Gander leads the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program, pioneering efforts to reduce opioid use post-surgery and accelerate children’s recovery. He has introduced numerous innovative minimally invasive techniques for surgery at UVA Children’s, enhancing patient outcomes and recovery times.
Outside of the operating room, Dr. Gander is committed to combatting pediatric obesity by advocating for increased access to nutritious food for children. His efforts are supported by a substantial grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Dr. Gander’s passion for medical education is evident in his role as Surgery Clerkship Director at the UVA School of Medicine, where he mentors future surgeons in hopes of fostering a culture of excellence in surgical training while improving patient care.