Dr. Fonseca completed a fellowship in complex general surgical oncology at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in 2018. At USA, her clinical focus will be tumors of the liver, pancreas, gastric and biliary system, as well as other gastrointestinal tumors.
Dr. Fonseca has a special interest in the treatment of patients with cystic diseases of the pancreas. Her research focuses on pancreatic cystic disease, and the progression of these lesions to pancreatic cancer. She also conducts clinical research seeking to improve delivery of care and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing surgery. “In addition to providing high quality health care, we can make a huge difference through research,” she said.
Dr. Michael A. Finan, director of the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute, said, “We are assembling an incredibly talented team of cancer surgeons to address complex cases and to advance knowledge through cutting-edge cancer research. Two of our surgical oncologists, Dr. Fonseca and Dr. Spencer Liles, trained at MD Anderson. Patients throughout the Gulf Coast region can receive the highest quality of cancer care right here in Mobile at the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute.”
A native of Mumbai, India, Dr. Fonseca earned her medical degree at Padmashree Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College in India. She continued her training at Yale University, obtaining a Master of Health Science degree at Yale University School of Medicine. While at MD Anderson, she also completed a National Institute of Health T32 research fellowship focusing on pancreatic cystic disease.
Dr. Fonseca said she was drawn to surgical oncology because it is a field that is emotionally fulfilling. “It allows us to work with and help patients during their most difficult times, and offer them a chance for cure," she said.
Dr. Fonseca is accepting new patients. To make an appointment, call (251) 434-3711.
