Karen Kim, MD

Provider is directly employed by MedStar Health

Karen M. Kim, MD, MS, is a board-certified cardiac surgeon specializing in the treatment of complex cardiovascular and aortic disease at MedStar Washington Hospital Center.

Dr. Kim cares for patients with a broad range of cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, infective endocarditis, cardiac arrhythmias, thoracic aortic aneurysms, and aortic dissections. Her expertise includes endovascular aortic repair and transcatheter treatment of valve disease, including Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR). Recognizing that cardiothoracic surgery is continually advancing with new technology and procedures, Dr. Kim is committed to staying current and technically skilled in a wide range of treatment options.

With over 10 years of experience, Dr. Kim is dedicated to advancing MedStar's aortic expertise and providing high-quality general and complex cardiac surgery, with a focus on outcomes and patient experience. Dr. Kim’s patients appreciate her ability to explain complicated conditions and procedures in an easy-to-understand manner, her attention to detail, and her commitment to postoperative care and excellent patient outcomes.

Dr. Kim obtained her medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her general surgery residency at Massachusetts General Hospital. She completed her cardiothoracic surgery residency, as well as specialty fellowship training in aortic surgery, at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. To facilitate her interest in outcomes research, she obtained a Master of Science in clinical research design and statistical analysis at the University of Michigan. Before joining MedStar Health, Dr. Kim worked at large tertiary care centers, caring for complex patients and participating in clinical trials for aortic and structural heart disease.

A recognized leader in the treatment of aortic disease, Dr. Kim has contributed to both North American and European aortic guidelines. She has leadership positions in several cardiothoracic organizations, including serving as Director-at-Large on the Board of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, as Chair of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Political Action Committee, and as Treasurer of the Thoracic Surgery Foundation.

Originally from the Midwest, Dr. Kim has lived throughout the U.S. during her education, training, and employment, and has a deep appreciation for different regions and cultures. She loves to watch football and is a season ticket holder for the Commanders. She also loves playing pickleball.

Philosophy of Care

“Since the age of five, I have wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps and become a doctor. I find it rewarding as a surgeon to help people live longer, healthier lives. I care deeply about performing excellent operations and providing excellent patient care. And I only recommend treatments or procedures that I would to my own family and friends.”

Dr. Kim sees patients at the following location:

110 Irving St. NW

North Addition 1st Fl Ste 1243

Washington, DC, 20010

Phone: 202-877-7464