Edward Cantu, MD

Dr. Edward Cantu is a nationally recognized thoracic surgeon specializing in lung transplantation and pulmonary disease at the UK Gill Heart & Vascular Institute.

He earned his bachelor’s degree from Harvard University, medical degree from Columbia University and master’s degree in clinical epidemiology from the University of Pennsylvania. He completed his surgical training at Duke University Medical Center; this training included residencies in general and thoracic surgery and a research fellowship in thoracic transplantation. 

Dr. Cantu previously served on the faculty at the University of Pennsylvania, where he held leadership roles in lung transplant research and clinical programs.

A prolific researcher, Dr. Cantu has authored over 130 peer-reviewed publications and led multiple studies funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that focused on improving lung transplant outcomes, donor organ evaluation and primary graft dysfunction. He serves on editorial boards and reviews for leading journals in thoracic surgery and transplantation.

Dr. Cantu has received numerous honors, including the J. Maxwell Chamberlain Award from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and the Harold Amos Medical Faculty Development Award. He holds national leadership roles with the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation, the NIH, and the FDA.

Committed to education and mentorship, Dr. Cantu has guided dozens of medical students, residents and research scholars through structured programs and continues to lecture nationally and internationally on lung transplantation and surgical innovation.
 

Personal Statement

My career is focused on the intersection of patient-centered transplant care, research, education and service, and I strive to exemplify excellence in each of these areas. I will continue to provide the finest surgical care possible while inspiring my trainees to surpass my achievements.

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