The UAB Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery recently welcomed Kelly Staricha, M.D., as an assistant professor.
Kelly Staricha, M.D.
Staricha earned a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from Northwestern University before attending medical school at the Medical College of Wisconsin. She completed residency training at the Mayo Clinic and an Advanced Head and Neck Surgical Oncology and Microvascular Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh.
Staricha shares what inspired her to pursue a career in ENT, what excited her most about her new role, her areas of expertise, and her goals for making an impact at UAB.
What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
Staricha: In medical school, I was inspired to pursue a career in ENT because many of the treatments and surgeries have a large impact on patients' quality of life. With my background in engineering, I was naturally drawn to reconstructive surgery at the beginning of my training. In the process of deciding between pursuing a career in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery versus Head and Neck Surgical Oncology and Microvascular Reconstructive Surgery, I had several encounters with head and neck cancer patients which were pivotal in leading me down the path of treating this patient population. I ultimately chose this specialty because I am passionate about providing thoughtful, patient-centered care and am committed to helping patients navigate the complexities of head and neck cancer treatment while achieving the best possible functional and oncologic outcomes.
What aspects of your new role here are you most excited about?
Staricha: I am beyond excited to join such an experienced and supportive team here at UAB. The collaboration within the Head and Neck Division, within the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and amongst multidisciplinary specialists is critical to top notch patient care. I look forward to becoming an active member of the UAB community, taking on leadership opportunities within UAB and nationally, advancing the field of head and neck surgery, and, above all, taking the best possible care of my patients and advocating for the individuals and communities I serve.
What is your primary area of expertise within your field, and what sparked your passion for it?
Staricha: I specialize in all aspects of extirpative head and neck surgical oncology and head and neck reconstruction. I have a passion for treating patients with all types of benign and malignant head and neck tumors. I have a particular interest in free flap reconstruction of the head and neck and aim to prioritize custom, patient-specific reconstructions that consider the unique anatomic, functional, and aesthetic needs of each patient.
What are your goals for making an impact through both your teaching and patient care in this role?
Staricha: During my residency at the Mayo Clinic, I embraced its core motto, “the needs of the patient come first.” I strive to honor that principle with every patient I treat. Beyond my dedication to patient care, my research interests include working to improve overall survival and functional outcomes for patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer. I am also deeply committed to mentoring trainees and am interested in educational research aimed at advancing head and neck surgical training.