Kiran Chekka, MD
Principal Investigator | Cedar Crosse Research Center
Dr. Kiran Chekka, MD, has recently joined Cedar Crosse Research Center, acquiring a leading role under the leadership of Dr. Danny Sugimoto, where he will eventually succeed Dr. Sugimoto in the years to follow. In his current role as Principal Investigator, Dr. Chekka will lead a team of researchers and continue the center’s groundbreaking clinical research initiatives. He will also serve as Assistant Medical Director under Dr. Sugimoto, a highly esteemed figure in clinical research with an unparalleled legacy of contributions to the field.
Dr. Chekka brings over 15 years of expertise in anesthesiology and pain management, including key research areas such as interventional procedures, minimally invasive pain management, regenerative medicine, chronic pain treatment, and innovative neurostimulation techniques. His new role at Cedar Crosse Research Center represents a milestone in his dedication to advancing clinical research, particularly in pain management and chronic disease.
A Vision for the Future at Cedar Crosse Research Center
Dr. Chekka’s appointment as Principal Investigator marks a significant milestone in the continued success of Cedar Crosse Research Center. Under his leadership, the center will build on the legacy of groundbreaking research and innovative treatments established by Dr. Sugimoto. As Dr. Chekka assumes his role, Dr. Sugimoto will continue to guide and assist him, ensuring a seamless transition in leadership. In the years to come, Dr. Chekka will also assume the role of Medical Director, further strengthening the center’s research initiatives.
Known for his exceptional expertise in pain management and chronic disease, Dr. Chekka will expand the areas of research at Cedar Crosse, benefiting the team and advancing patient care to new heights. With a focus on clinical trials, Dr. Chekka’s leadership positions Cedar Crosse to make significant contributions to the medical field.
Research & Academic Leadership
With a deep commitment to both clinical practice and academic leadership, Dr. Chekka’s career has been shaped by a passion for pain management, interventional procedures, and cutting-edge treatments. His expertise encompasses several key areas of research:
- Interventional Procedures: Techniques for targeting specific nerve groups to alleviate chronic pain.
- Minimally Invasive Pain Management: Advancements in procedures such as spinal cord stimulation and regenerative medicine therapies (e.g., platelet-rich plasma).
- Regenerative Medicine: Exploring stem cell-based therapies to treat musculoskeletal and neurological pain.
- Chronic Pain Treatment: Focused on improving the quality of life for patients suffering from long-term pain conditions.
- Neurostimulation Techniques: Developing more effective ways to treat pain via innovative neurostimulation technologies.
Additional Research Areas:
Dr. Chekka’s research interests also extend to the use of ultrasound-guided injections, neuropathic pain, and multidisciplinary approaches to pain relief.
Key Publications and Research Contributions
Dr. Chekka has made significant contributions to the field of pain management, publishing numerous articles and book chapters in peer-reviewed journals. Below are some of his key publications:
- Scalene Muscle Injections for Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Published in Pain Practice, this landmark study demonstrated the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided injections for neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome. - Celiac Plexus Neurolysis: Radiologic Guidance and Fellowship Training
Co-authored a pivotal paper on the role of image-guided neurolysis for managing abdominal cancer pain, published in Journal of Supportive Oncology. - Postherpetic Neuralgia Management
An evidence-based review of approaches to prevent and manage postherpetic neuralgia, published in Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine.
Awards & Recognitions
Dr. Chekka’s career has been decorated with numerous prestigious awards in recognition of his excellence in both patient care and research:
- America’s Most Honored Professionals (Top 10%) – Recognized for his outstanding contributions to pain management and clinical research.
- Patients’ Choice Award – Awarded for exceptional patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes.
- Compassionate Doctor Award – Acknowledging Dr. Chekka’s exceptional bedside manner and empathetic approach to patient care.
- On-Time Physician Award – Recognized for his efficiency and punctuality in clinical settings.
Global Health & Humanitarian Work
Dr. Chekka has a strong commitment to global health, having volunteered with organizations like Doctors Without Borders and Operation Walk Chicago. His humanitarian efforts include providing medical care in underserved regions and training local healthcare providers in advanced pain management techniques. Some highlights of his humanitarian work include:
- Providing free joint replacements with Operation Walk Chicago in developing countries.
- Leading medical missions to Nepal, Rwanda, and Sri Lanka, focusing on advancing pain management and healthcare delivery in resource-limited areas.
- Teaching ultrasound-guided pain management techniques to physicians around the world.