Michael E. Karellas, MD

Michael Karellas, MD, is a urologic oncologist who treats urologic cancers, including bladder, kidney, prostate, and testicular cancer. He also treats general urology conditions such as kidney stones.

Dr. Karellas originally wanted to be a pharmacist but became interested in caring for patients in college. Then, in medical school, he found himself drawn to surgery. “In urology, I like that the nature of our surgery is generally curative,” he says.

Dr. Karellas recognizes the importance of working with patients to determine the best course of treatment for them. Most cancers have clinical guidelines based on standardized data to help determine which scientifically proven approach might best treat their cancer, he explains. “However, guidelines are not mandates, and I always discuss options with patients,” he says. “I listen to the patient to learn about their wishes, wants, and treatment goals. Then, I merge those with the standardized treatments to offer the best care possible for them.”

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Karellas is the director of the Western Division of Urology for Yale Medicine, an assistant professor of urology for Yale School of Medicine, and a researcher interested in a variety of urological treatments.