Dr. Kenneth K. Tanabe Named 2025–2026 SSO President-Elect

The Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO) has announced the election of Kenneth K. Tanabe, MD, FSSO, as its 2025–2026 President-Elect, marking a significant moment for the surgical oncology community. Dr. Tanabe’s appointment reflects his exceptional career as a surgeon-scientist, leader, and educator whose work has consistently advanced the field of cancer surgery.

Photo from SSO/X

Kenneth K. Tanabe: A Respected Leader in Surgical Oncology

Dr. Tanabe is a globally recognized expert in surgical oncology with a distinguished focus on hepatobiliary and colorectal cancers. He currently serves as Chief of the Division of Surgical Oncology at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and as Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School. He is also the Deputy Clinical Director at the Mass General Cancer Center, where he has led numerous efforts to enhance multidisciplinary cancer care.

With a reputation for clinical excellence, Dr. Tanabe is not only a skilled surgeon but also a mentor and researcher whose work has significantly influenced cancer treatment protocols and surgical innovation.

About Kenneth Tanabe, MD

Dr. Kenneth Tanabe is a Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School, Chief of the Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery and ESSCO – Slater Family Chair of Surgical Oncology at Massachusetts General Hospital. He serves as the Deputy Clinical Director of the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Director of the Mass General Liver Surgery Program, and is a former Director of the Liver Surgery Program for the Department of Surgery.

Dr. Tanabe is a board member of the American Board of Surgery Complex General Surgical Oncology Board. He has served on the Executive Council of the Society of Surgical Oncology and is on the editorial board for several journals, including service as Deputy Editor for Annals of Surgical Oncology.

He has an active clinical practice that focuses on complex liver surgery—including laparoscopic resections—and multidisciplinary cancer patient evaluations. Additionally, he is an active member of the Melanoma Surgery Program, previously serving as its director. He continues to provide care for melanoma patients and contributed to the melanoma patient care guidelines committee for the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) for 15 years.

Dr. Tanabe also directs a translational research laboratory dedicated to exploring novel experimental cancer therapies and cancer prevention strategies.

A Commitment to Excellence and Equity

Throughout his career, Dr. Tanabe has demonstrated a commitment to clinical precision, patient-centered care, and advancing research through collaboration. He has been actively involved in national and international efforts to improve surgical outcomes and increase access to high-quality cancer care.

His leadership within the SSO has spanned years of dedicated service, including his roles on various committees and educational initiatives. As President-Elect, he is expected to continue championing key priorities such as:

• Strengthening education and mentorship within surgical oncology

• Expanding global collaboration and engagement

• Advocating for evidence-based and equitable cancer care

• Supporting innovation in cancer research and surgical techniques

About the SSO

The Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO) is the leading organization for surgical oncologists, dedicated to advancing the science and practice of cancer surgery. Through research, education, and advocacy, the SSO empowers its members to deliver the highest quality care to patients around the world.

Photo from surgonc.org

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