Sidney Kimmel Medical College Hosts 102nd Annual Meeting of Clinical Society of Genitourinary Surgeons

Led by Dr. Leonard G. Gomella, The Bernard W. Godwin Professor of Prostate Cancer and Chair of the Department of Urology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University hosted the 102nd annual meeting of the Clinical Society of Genitourinary Surgeons (CSGUS). The CSGUS, founded in 1921, represents one of the most prestigious organizations in academic urology. The 2025 meeting marked a homecoming for Jefferson, which previously hosted CSGUS meeting in 1932.

"This weekend celebrated both the academic excellence of Sidney Kimmel Medical College and Philadelphia's pivotal role in American history," said Dr. Gomella. "We designed an experience that honored CSGUS tradition while showcasing Jefferson's innovative approach to urologic research and patient care."

The meeting featured an impressive lineup of speakers. Dr. Susan Aldridge, President of Thomas Jefferson University, welcomed attendees and underscored the University's commitment to both scientific excellence and its deep roots in Philadelphia. Dr. David A. Bloom, MD, FACS, FAAP, Jack Lapides Professor of Urology at the University of Michigan Medical School, delivered the CSGUS Special Lecture on "Urology, the ABU, and Democracy."

Additional distinguished guest speakers included Dr. David B. Nash, MD, MBA, Founding Dean Emeritus of the Jefferson College of Population Health, who presented "How Covid Crashed the System," and Dr. Julita Mitchell, Director of the Integrative Weight Management Program at the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health, who discussed "Menopause: An Integrative Approach."

Jefferson faculty presented on diverse research topics spanning prostate cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, gene therapy, pediatric urology, telehealth innovations, and surgical safety. Presentations included:

• Dr. Mathew L. Thakur on "Prostate Cancer: Targeting VPAC Receptors for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications"
• Dr. Patrick T. Gomella on "Implementation of a Comprehensive Focal Therapy Program in the SKCCC"
• Dr. Ethan J. Halpern on "A Brief History of Prostate Ultrasound at Thomas Jefferson University: Echoes of Enlightenment"
•  Dr. Costas D. Lallas on "AMG 509 Neoadjuvant Therapy for High-Risk Prostate Cancer: A Phase 1 Trial"
• Dr. Marja T. Nevalainen on "Are Jak2-Stat5-Inhibitors a New Category of ARSIs for Prostate Cancer Therapy?"
• Dr. Paul H. Chung on "Dips and Irrigations for Prosthetic Surgery: What Can We Learn From the Lab"
• Dr. Patrick J. Shenot on "Gene Therapy for Neurogenic Detrusor Overactivity"
• Dr. Jennifer Hagerty on "Pediatric Urology in the Plain Community: Clinical Insights and Cultural Considerations"
• Dr. Deborah T. Glassman on "Telehealth in Cancer Care Counseling"
• Dr. Scott G. Hubosky on "Defining Safety Culture in the Practice of Ureteroscopy"

Dr. Leonard Gomella presented "Jefferson 200 and Our Department of Urology: 1824-2024," highlighting the department's history as the oldest formally established urology department in the United States, founded in 1904.

The conference immersed attendees in Philadelphia's rich historical legacy through carefully curated venues and experiences, including the Union League of Philadelphia, founded in 1862 to support President Abraham Lincoln and the Union cause during the Civil War, and the Museum of the American Revolution.

“We were honored to welcome CSGUS to Philadelphia as we continue Jefferson's 200-year legacy of medical education and innovation," said Dr. Said Ibrahim, Anthony F. and Gertrude M. DePalma Dean of Sidney Kimmel Medical College. “ This meeting showcased both our Department of Urology's cutting-edge research and Philadelphia's unique role in American history."

Visit jefferson.edu/urology for more information about the Department of Urology at Sidney Kimmel Medical College.