Renea Sturm, M.D.

As a surgeon-scientist, Sturm is particularly motivated to apply basic science and technological advancements to improve equity, quality and consistency in pediatric urologic surgery, regardless of surgeon experience or care setting. Her clinical focus includes minimally invasive robotic-assisted and endoscopic surgery, complex hypospadias repair and urinary tract reconstruction. She also works closely with the maternal-fetal healthcare program, providing pre- and post-delivery care for a range of urologic conditions.

A key area of Sturm’s research involves tissue engineering. She collaborates with bioengineering and chemical engineering researchers at UCLA — including fellow center member Song Li, Ph.D. — to develop “bio-inspired” tissue that mimics the mechanical, structural and biological characteristics of healthy urethras. The goal of this work is to create more effective and durable solutions for urethral reconstruction.

Sturm is also developing a biodegradable surgical repair device to distribute wound tension across incisions, providing external support for tissue repairs in both open and robotic surgeries. This novel device is intended to improve consistency in surgical outcomes, decrease the risk of technical complications and enable children to resume normal activities more quickly after surgery.

Another aspect of Sturm's research involves the application of 3D mapping technologies. The aim of her work in this area is to develop a comprehensive database that facilitates more objective evaluations of each pediatric patient’s anatomical findings and standardizes descriptions of surgical repairs.