Dear colleagues,
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Justin Knittel, MD, as the Division Chief of Trauma Anesthesiology, effective July 1, 2024. Dr. Knittel has been serving in this role on an interim basis since August 1, 2023.
Dr. Knittel, an associate professor of anesthesiology, is a distinguished clinician and leader with a notable track record of service and dedication to the department and beyond. During his tenure as interim Division Chief, he has successfully led the Division of Trauma Anesthesiology, demonstrating exceptional leadership and achieving significant milestones in clinical excellence and education.
Dr. Knittel is an exemplary physician whose leadership in and commitment to trauma anesthesiology have been invaluable. His appointment as Division Chief reflects his unwavering dedication to clinical excellence, education, and research. I am confident that under Dr. Knittel’s leadership, the Division of Trauma Anesthesiology will continue to thrive and advance in its mission.
Dr. Knittel earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Anesthesiology at Massachusetts General Hospital and his fellowship in Critical Care in the Department of Anesthesiology at WashU Medicine in 2013.
Since joining our faculty as an instructor in 2014 and being promoted to associate professor in 2021, Dr. Knittel has been a pivotal force in the development of our trauma anesthesiology services. His contributions include his tenure as section chief since 2020 and his leadership roles as trauma fellowship director and resident education director for the Surgical ICU since 2017.
Beyond his work in the department, Dr. Knittel has made significant humanitarian contributions through his volunteer work in Ukraine with Doctors Collaborating to Help Children. This commitment to global health and his ability to apply his expertise in diverse and challenging environments further highlights his expertise in and passion for trauma care.
The Division of Trauma Anesthesiology is integral to the department’s missions, providing critical services and leadership in trauma care. Under Dr. Knittel’s guidance, the division will continue to focus on enhancing clinical excellence, recruitment, mentorship, and research initiatives, ensuring the provision of top-tier care to our patients.
Please join me in extending a heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Knittel on this well-deserved appointment.
With very warm wishes,
Michael
Michael S. Avidan, MBBCh, FCASA
Dr. Seymour and Rose T. Brown Professor of Anesthesiology
Head of the Department of Anesthesiology
Professor of Anesthesiology, Psychiatry, and Surgery
Anesthesiologist-in-Chief, Barnes-Jewish Hospital