Nelson G. Rosen, MD

I am a general and pediatric surgeon specializing in pediatric anorectal and urogenital malformations, as well as congenital and acquired chest wall anomalies. At Cincinnati Children's Colorectal Center and Chest Wall Center, we offer cutting-edge surgical options to ensure the best outcomes with minimal discomfort. Our multidisciplinary expertise is among the most extensive in the nation.

My inspiration to become a physician began at an early age. My brother was born with congenital cardiac malformation at a time when that specialty was in its infancy, which deeply affected our family. My father's skills as a professional baker, who also repaired anything that ever broke in the bakery, instilled in me a passion for fixing things, later leading me to surgery. There are many ways to help people, but this is the way I think I can do the most good.

I trained in complex anorectal and urogenital reconstruction in New York with Alberto Peña, who founded the Colorectal Center here in 2005. Our philosophy has always been to work closely with urologists and gynecologists to provide integrated care. This synergistic approach leads to increased patient satisfaction and better outcomes. As associate director of the Colorectal Center, I strive to treat patients as I would want my own child to be treated, emphasizing empathy and kindness.

I've had the honor of serving in the United States Army Reserve since medical school, and in 2019 I was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General. In over 31 years with the Army Reserve I’m most proud of my time commanding the 1st Forward Surgical Team in Iraq, and the 3d Medical Command in Kuwait. Both of those units earned the Meritorious Unit Commendation, which is all about team effort. Working as a team is what makes our Army the finest in the world, and is the same thing that I think makes Cincinnati Children’s the best.

In 2024, I began transitioning to take over some of the pediatric chest wall reconstruction practice from a retiring senior partner, alongside Dr. Rebeccah Brown and Dr. Jason Frischer. We are excited to continue the legacy of excellence at Cincinnati Children's, incorporating the latest techniques to improve patient outcomes and reduce pain.

My research focuses on improving care for children and adults with complex colorectal and urogenital disorders. Current projects include pilonidal disease management, enterocolitis in Hirschsprung's disease, and a single-incision laparoscopic technique for appendicitis. Now that I'm treating chest wall malformations, we're working to streamline our approach, ensuring we provide the highest quality care while making the best possible use of the precious resources at our disposal. Whatever the future looks like, we are doing all we can to make sure it's healthier than today!