Delmar R. Aitken M.D., F.A.C.S

    My advanced general surgical expertise combined with my surgical oncology practice makes me one of the county's leading surgeons.  I am a pioneer in the development of the NeoProbe, which is widely used in the detection of cancer.  My patients range from those seeking advice regarding minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures, tension-free hernia repairs, gallbladder problems, and office treatment of hemorrhoids to those needing complex and life-saving surgical oncology operations. 

    I am a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and recognized by my peers as an authority in the detection of cancer.

    During my two year surgical oncology fellowship at James Cancer Center, Ohio State University, I performed the basic science research that led to the development of the NeoProbe.  I did the first surgeries in the world using the NeoProbe in the detection of breast and colorectal cancer.  Today surgical oncologists around the world rely on the NeoProbe for detection of sentinel lymph nodes in patients with breast cancer or melanoma. 

    In addition to my medical practice, I have written and published extensively in books and medical journals on general surgery techniques, cancer detection, and research projects.  At Loma Linda University, I was twice honored as Faculty Researcher of the Year in recognition of medical student research projects.  I am an active member of both local and national medical societies and organizations.

    My knowledge base makes me an excellent choice as the surgeon to consult for any condition from hernia repair to major cancer surgery.  My dedication to my patients is evident from the moment you meet me.  Taking time to meet my patients, explaining options and relieving fears, is an integral part of how I have practiced surgery since my internship at Kettering Memorial Hospital.

    “Every patient is my most important case” is how I practice.  My philosophy is also the best surgery is no operation at all.  I give patients the necessary attention to determine a diagnosis and explain treatment options and surgical procedures to determine the best management decisions.  To show my patients how much I care for them at Christmas I play Santa Claus at Desert Regional Medical Center.

    I don’t just perform surgery and pass the patient to another specialist.  I work with other professionals for the start. The goal is to incorporate the best possible treatment plan.

    My office is on the campus of Desert Regional Medical Center and is truly a “family practice”.  My wife of 38 years, Cheree Aitken, R.N. was my research assistant when I developed the NeoProbe.  Her training in cardiovascular radiology, cancer nursing, and wound care at Loma Linda help her answer patients’ questions and allay apprehensions. 

    A recently added aspect to my practice is the use of patented CRH Hemorrhoid Banding System (Read more about this on my Learn more about hemorrhoid page).  I am the only physician in the Coachella Valley performing this procedure.  It’s fast and painless with virtually no recovery time and a major advancement in hemorrhoid treatment.