(New York –December 11, 2003) Stephen B. Colvin, M.D., Chief of NYU Medical Center’s Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, announced today that Juan B. Grau, M.D., recently appointed Attending Surgeon, will spearhead the Division’s international Latino initiative. Grau’s appointment will provide a vital link to the Latino community, facilitating easier access for Spanish-speaking physicians and their patients into NYU’s cardiothoracic surgery program.

Concurrently, the launch of the new website, Instituto de Cirugía Cardiotorácica en el Internet, http://www.med.nyu.edu/cvsurgery/sp/, will provide information for Spanish-speaking patients and health care providers on the most advanced surgical procedures for adult and pediatric patients with diseases of the heart or chest (thoracic cavity). The site’s launch will be the first in a series of initiatives to provide the Latino community with up-to-date information on the surgical treatment of cardiovascular disease.

"We are building particularly close ties to the Latino community, both here and abroad, through a variety of outreach efforts, translations of medical information, and surgical consultations with Latino practitioners," states Stephen B. Colvin, Chief. "With the addition of Dr. Grau and the launch of Instituto de Cirugía Cardiotorácica en el Internet, we will now be able to provide the Latino community in New York and worldwide with the latest information on the most advanced surgical treatment options for patients with cardiovascular disease."

Dr. Grau, who was born in Madrid, Spain, attended medical school in Madrid, and completed his general surgery residency and cardiothoracic surgery fellowship at NYU Medical Center. With significant training in various medical and scientific disciplines ranging from biological research, surgery, and pediatric medicine, Dr. Grau adds a unique level of expertise to the renowned surgeons and researchers of NYU’s cardiothoracic team. He is currently in charge of several NYUMC exchange programs for medical students from different South American and Spanish Universities and works with Latino residents completing their training in general surgery and cardiothoracic surgery.

"It is an honor to join the ranks of NYU’s Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery," states Grau. "As a Latino, I am in a unique position to help eliminate communication barriers that often interfere with the diagnosis and treatment of Spanish-speaking patients needing cardiac surgery."

Furthermore, Dr. Grau holds special distinction for his service as a Second Lieutenant with the Special Operations Forces of NATO during the Gulf War, receiving the White House Medical Unit Certificate of Commendation and the Outstanding Performance as Medical Officer Award, presented by the Special Operations Forces NATO. "We are extremely pleased to have such a promising and talented colleague join our team," adds Aubrey C. Galloway, M.D., Director of Cardiac Surgical Research. "Dr. Grau will add excellent clinical and research skills to our strong surgical group. We are confident that he will build a strong rapport with his patients and their families, especially in the Latino community because of his personal commitment and passion for medicine."

To learn more about NYU’s Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, visit our website at http://www.med.nyu.edu/cvsurgery/en.