LeRoy Heinrichs, MD, PhD

Background     

Dr. Heinrichs earned his M.D. degree at the University of Oklahoma, and completed Obstetrics and Gynecology training at Harper Hospital, Detroit, Michigan. He studied Biochemistry (Steroids) at the University of Oregon Health Sciences, earning his Ph.D. His academic appointment in Ob/Gyn at the University of Washington, led to an early career in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. As the new Chair of Gyn/Ob in 1976 at Stanford University, he ushered in the new practice of advanced videoendoscopic surgery, and conducted clinical trials with therapies for endometriosis, and for hormone replacement therapy. He has one patent, and is co-patentee on two in reproductive endocrinology, and another on wound sensors.

Research Interests

For the past six years he has coordinated the development of 3D models of human anatomy, creating virtual organs for teaching and simulating videoendoscopic surgery. For the past 11 years Dr. Heinrichs has researched and developed prototypes of surgical simulators for medical education in private and university contexts.

Project Role

As the Clinical Skills Testbed Lead, he directs the development of the Clinical Skills modules with appropriate 3D models and recruits professional contacts. He sets up and manages the interactions with CSIRO, Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organization, in Australia as well as other collaborators, such as University of Michigan. This work involves the remote testing of various simulators, including the Surgical Simulator and the Remote Tactile Sensor.