Dr. David Hockmuth

Thoracic surgeons operate on organs within the chest cavity, treating lung cancer, esophageal cancer, emphysema, and chest wall tumors. They perform lobectomies, pneumonectomies, esophagectomies, and minimally invasive thoracoscopic procedures.

When selecting a thoracic surgeon in West Des Moines, IA, procedural volume and peer ratings are key indicators. Physician Signal provides Insight Scores from OR staff who directly assist in these complex chest surgeries.

Your initial consultation includes reviewing CT scans, PET scans, and pulmonary function tests. The surgeon will discuss your diagnosis, explain surgical options and alternatives, and outline the expected recovery and rehabilitation timeline.

Thoracic surgeons receive peer ratings from verified surgical staff across six categories, combined into a weighted Insight Score from 1-10 that reflects their technical skill, professionalism, and clinical outcomes.