Ryan Levy, MD, Appointed Co-Director of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute and Chair of Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery

UPMC is pleased to announce the appointment of Ryan Levy, MD, as co-Director of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute and chair of Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery. Dr. Levy also serves as the chief of the Division of Thoracic and Foregut Surgery, reflecting his longstanding leadership, clinical excellence, and commitment to advancing patient-centered thoracic and esophageal care.

In his role as co-director of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute, Dr. Levy will help guide one of the nation's leading cardiovascular and thoracic surgery programs. He will play a key role in advancing the service line's mission to deliver world-class cardiovascular and thoracic care, expand patient access to specialized services, and support the integration of cutting-edge research, education, and technology into everyday clinical practice.

As chair of Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery and Division chief of Thoracic Surgery, Dr. Levy will continue to drive transformative patient care while fostering a culture of collaboration, professional development, and shared success. In addition to his expertise and refined skillset in minimally invasive operative techniques, Dr. Levy brings to this role a record of sustained clinical and academic achievement aligned with the Department’s mission.

Dr. Levy earned his medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and completed his general surgery and cardiothoracic surgery training at UPMC. Under his leadership as chief of Thoracic Surgery at UPMC Passavant, the program has become one of the highest volume sites for complex lung and esophageal surgery in Pennsylvania. In addition, Dr. Levy was instrumental in introducing robotic bronchoscopy technology into the thoracic surgery program at UPMC. As vice chair of Thoracic Expansion and Community Outreach, Dr. Levy’s work has led to significant program growth and increased access for patients in western Pennsylvania.

UPMC’s thoracic surgery program is nationally recognized for its leadership in minimally invasive and robotic surgical approaches, multidisciplinary care, and innovation in the treatment of thoracic diseases. Through continued advancements in surgical techniques, clinical research, and physician education, the program remains committed to improving outcomes for patients with a full range of cardiothoracic diseases and disorders. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Levy on these well-deserved appointments. We look forward to his continued leadership and the lasting impact he will have on the future of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute and thoracic surgery program.