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Dr. Melissa Zimel is an orthopedic oncology surgeon who specializes in diagnosing and treating children and adults with bone or soft tissue tumors, as well as those with conditions caused by tumors. As an orthopedic oncologist, she evaluates and treats both benign and malignant tumors of the extremities, pelvis and trunk. For patients who need a cancerous bone tumor removed, she performs limb salvage surgery, which can involve joint reconstruction with custom implants. She also treats patients with metastatic bone cancer.

Zimel's research focuses on how to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients with musculoskeletal tumors who have had limbs either amputated or preserved and reconstructed using implants. Her studies include patients who have had one or multiple surgeries.

After earning her medical degree at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Zimel completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at Beaumont Health. She then completed a fellowship in orthopedic oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Zimel is a member of many professional organizations, including the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Orthopaedic Research Society, Ruth Jackson Orthopaedic Society, J. Robert Gladden Orthopaedic Society and American Medical Association.

  • Education

    Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 2008

  • Residencies

    William Beaumont Hospital, Orthopedic Surgery, 2013

  • Fellowships

    Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Orthopedic Oncology, 2015

  • Board Certifications

    Orthopedic Surgery, American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.

  • Academic Title

    Associate Professor

Where I see patients (4)

    Smell the roses

    Wander outside into our Butterfly Garden in Oakland and our healing gardens at Mission Bay.

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