Antonio Mendoza-Ladd, the medical director of gastrointestinal endoscopy at the University of California, Sacramento, UC Davis Health, recently made headlines for performing the first biopsy in the United States using a groundbreaking device for endoscopic ultrasound tissue sampling. The device, called EndoDrill GL, allows for larger tissue samples to be collected from various organs in the gastrointestinal tract, including the pancreas, stomach, esophagus, lymph nodes, and liver.
Mendoza-Ladd and his team conducted the first three cases in the United States using this new system. The process of bringing the device to the United States involved almost a year of paperwork. The procedure is similar to a standard endoscopy, with the addition of a mini drill that rotates at high speed to take samples from compromised organs.
Dr. Mendoza Ladd has a strong focus on exploring innovative applications of endoscopy in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancer.
Born and raised in Guatemala, Mendoza-Ladd’s journey to becoming a doctor was not easy. He worked in his mother’s store from a young age and faced economic struggles. Despite the challenges, he pursued his dream of becoming a doctor and ultimately achieved success. Mendoza-Ladd credits his upbringing and experiences in the store for instilling in him a strong work ethic and resilience.
As he continues his work at UC Davis Health, Mendoza-Ladd hopes to inspire others facing similar challenges to persevere and realize their potential. His story serves as a reminder that hard work and determination can lead to great accomplishments.