Ricardo Fernández-de Thomas, MD

Ricardo J. Fernández-de Thomas, MD, joined the University of Pittsburgh Department of Neurological Surgery residency program in July of 2021.

Having graduated magna cum laude from the University of Puerto Rico Río Piedras Campus with a bachelor’s degree in cellular and molecular biology, he completed his medical education at the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, where he also obtained his degree magna cum laude distinction. Dr. Fernández-de Thomas became interested in neurosurgery early in his education, meeting and identifying key mentors since his early college years.

He was recognized as a student leader and researcher at the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus, and the School of Medicine. He obtained various basic science and clinical research awards and became an active member of different student organizations.

After completing medical school in Puerto Rico, Dr. Fernández-de Thomas completed four years of neurosurgery residency at the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine.

Dr. Fernández-de Thomas is also involved in community outreach and service projects, having spent time volunteering in different health clinics in Puerto Rico and Central America. His dedication to academics, community and education led to his election into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society and the Arnold P. Gold Humanism Honor Society. During the PGY-5 year, he completed the UPMC Senior Resident and Fellow Leadership Academy yearly course. More recently, Dr. Fernández-de Thomas founded a company called Malleous, which consists of a suction retractor that combines the flexibility of use of a standard brain ribbon retractor with the benefits of a passive suction device.  

Dr. Fernández-de Thomas was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Outside of medicine, Ricardo enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing baseball, softball, practicing martial arts, tennis, volleyball, weight lifting, and outdoor activities.

Dr. Fernández's publications can be reviewed through the National Library of Medicine's publication database.