Rodger W. Althoff, M.D., FACS
General and Vascular Surgery

Dr. Althoff began his surgical career in his native home of Ohio before exploring practice in a number of cities along the eastern part of the United States including Pittsburgh, PA, and Myrtle Beach, SC. These experiences helped him gain valuable insight into a variety of different health care practices and surgical techniques. He joined Glacial Ridge Health System in June of 2008, where he serves in a leadership role.

Dr. Althoff was drawn to the Glenwood community for their support of the hospital and health system. He is excited to be a part of a supportive and caring group of people and looks forward to everything this area has to offer.

Receiving his medical degree from George Washington University in Washington, D.C., Dr. Althoff continued his residency there before serving as a flight surgeon during the Vietnam War. Along the way, through vast experience in situations that many will never face, Dr. Althoff solidified his beliefs and values. He strives to talk to people in terms that they can understand and firmly believes that nothing is more important than the patient being in full comprehension of the situation they face.

Dr. Althoff’s surgical specialties include:
• All Major Vascular procedures except AAA
• Cardiac Pacing
• Minimally invasive Breast Cancer Surgery, including Sentinel Node      
   Biopsies
• Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery; Parathyroid Surgery is minimally
   invasive using a Gama Camera
• All forms of General Surgery of the GI Tract
• Laparoscopic Gallbladder, Hernia, and Anti-reflux Surgery

Dr. Althoff specializes in abdominal, arterial re-constructions, and vascular surgery. He is a strong advocate for preventative medicine, which looks proactively into the patient’s health history and lifestyle to help foresee any problems and take effort to prevent future health issues. He has a particular passion for breast disease – catching the disease early to increase chances of survival – and has been an early advocate and practitioner in the state-of-the art sentinel node biopsy.

Understanding and appreciating the value of life, Dr. Althoff celebrates each minute with hobbies that include ocean sailing, flying and big game hunting. Of course, nothing is more important than family and he spends his free time visiting his children, several grandchildren and enjoying the outdoors – with his dog Maggie by his side.