Milestone Achievement for Dr. Panos Kougias

Jun 4, 2025

The SUNY Downstate Department of Surgery congratulates Panos Kougias, MD, MSc, FACS, Chair of the Department of Surgery, Clarence and Mary Dennis Professor of Surgery on being elected as a Fellow of the American Surgical Association (ASA). 

This prestigious recognition serves as a national acknowledgment of Dr. Kougias’ steadfast dedication, exemplary leadership, and brilliant contributions to the field of surgery. His induction as a Fellow of the ASA marks a significant milestone in his distinguished career, reflecting both his professional excellence and his commitment to advancing surgical care, science, and education. 

Dr. Kougias was nominated at the 145th ASA Annual Meeting in San Diego, CA. At the meeting, he presented “Turning Tides: Evolving Comorbidity Profiles, Demographic Shift, and the Unexpected Rise of Major Lower Extremity Amputations.” The impactful study demonstrated that a previous decline in major amputation incidence has inflected and is now increasing since 2010. Using a unique statistical analysis called population attributable fractions, Dr. Kougias demonstrated that the associated comorbidity profile has shifted to patients that are younger, white, obese, and hypertensive. The research presents a critical call for further investigation into the shifting etiology of amputations and revision of treatment paradigms to address the rise in amputation incidence.  

As an ASA Fellow, Dr. Kougias will have the esteemed opportunity to collaborate with a respected network of surgical leaders to help shape the future of surgical practice. The ASA, founded in 1880, is the oldest and most prestigious surgical organization in the U.S. Members include esteemed surgeons from around the world. The membership process is rigorous. To be considered for fellowship, candidates must have a strong reputation in surgery, leadership in national organizations, academic achievements, and ethical conduct.