James Maloney, MD

James Maloney, MD, is a UW Health thoracic and transplant surgeon and professor in the Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. He cares for patients who have lung, esophageal and other thoracic (chest cavity) cancers and conditions and provides pediatric lung transplants.

Dr. Maloney treats a variety of conditions — from thoracic infections, pneumonia and breathing problems to end-stage lung disease and cancer. He is skilled in a range of surgical procedures, including lung volume reduction surgery and lung transplant surgery. He has a special clinical interest in lung cancer, lung transplants and end-stage lung disease.

Dr. Maloney believes shared decision-making is important for helping patients understand their surgical options. He wants patients to feel comfortable asking questions to make sure they understand the treatment process. He also encourages patients to bring friends or family to their appointments for support.

In addition to his clinical practice and teaching role, Dr. Maloney is researching a new blood test to monitor patients after they are treated for lung cancer.

In his free time, Dr. Maloney enjoys playing tennis with his adult children.

The most rewarding part of my work is seeing patients do well after surgery.