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University Surgical Associates Celebrates 50 Years as Leading Hernia Surgeons in Chattanooga
The practice has evolved from a two-doctor office to a regional surgical powerhouse over the past five decades.
Mar. 26, 2026 at 8:53pm
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University Surgical Associates, a premier provider of hernia repair services in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Established in 1976 as a focused two-physician practice, the organization has grown into one of the largest and most technologically advanced surgical providers in the Southeastern United States, performing groundbreaking procedures and running one of the nation's top residency programs.
Why it matters
University Surgical Associates' 50-year milestone is a testament to its commitment to providing high-quality surgical care and medical education to the Tennessee Valley region. As a leading academic hub and surgical practice, the organization has been at the forefront of numerous medical advancements that have improved patient outcomes and access to specialized care in the Chattanooga community.
The details
Over the past 50 years, University Surgical Associates has achieved numerous milestones, including performing Chattanooga's first kidney transplant and introducing advanced endovascular procedures to the area. The practice has also been the first to bring dedicated trauma, pediatric, colorectal, vascular, and pancreatic surgeons to the community, ensuring residents can receive specialized care close to home. Today, the practice has over 200 employees and a team of more than 30 surgeons and advanced practice practitioners, with seven convenient locations across the region.
- University Surgical Associates was established in 1976.
- The practice is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026.
The players
University Surgical Associates
A premier provider of hernia repair services and other advanced surgical procedures in Chattanooga, Tennessee, that has evolved from a two-physician practice into a regional surgical powerhouse over the past 50 years.
Katy Duffy
The CEO of University Surgical Associates.
Dr. Ben Dart
The managing partner of University Surgical Associates.
What they’re saying
“With change comes great reward, and we have been able to band together as a company and focus on all of the things that we get to do in the future and decide what the practice is going to look like.”
— Katy Duffy, CEO of University Surgical Associates
“I think our surgeons, the young doctors that we train, and our leadership team are fantastic, as good as they've ever been. And probably most importantly, the staff. I think the staff that supports us is phenomenal. No one could do what we do without them.”
— Dr. Ben Dart, Managing Partner of University Surgical Associates
What’s next
Throughout 2026, the community will see University Surgical Associates' new brand featured at events across the region as the practice celebrates its history and looks toward the future.
The takeaway
University Surgical Associates' 50-year milestone is a testament to its commitment to providing innovative, high-quality surgical care and medical education to the Chattanooga community. As the practice enters its next chapter, it remains dedicated to putting patients first and continuing to lead the region in surgical excellence.
