SUMMARY
Gerald W. Volcheck, M.D., researches the epidemiology, evaluation and management of perioperative anaphylaxis. He also studies chronic urticaria and angioedema with a focus on evaluation and management.
Focus areas
- Perioperative anaphylaxis. Dr. Volcheck assesses patients who have experienced perioperative anaphylaxis. These assessments include a comprehensive evaluation to identify a cause of the reaction using the growing body of research on diagnostic modalities in this area. He complements the assessments with management recommendations for future surgeries. In addition, Dr. Volcheck studies the epidemiology of perioperative anaphylaxis, noting differences in causation based on geography.
- Urticaria and angioedema. Dr. Volcheck identifies appropriate evaluation of patients experiencing chronic urticaria and angioedema and outlines management plans. He is involved in multicenter studies aimed at finding new treatments for these conditions.
Significance to patient care
Perioperative anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that can happen during surgery and is life-threatening. When it occurs, Dr. Volcheck works with the patient's anesthesiologist and surgical team to review the anesthesia and surgery records. Together, they set up tests to find out what caused the reaction. This process is complicated because many substances are used during surgery, including medicines and other possible triggers. After the tests, which include skin and blood tests, Dr. Volchek and the surgical and anesthesiology team make recommendations on what is safe to use and what should be avoided in future surgeries.
Hives, which also are called chronic urticaria, can greatly affect a person's quality of life. So can a type of swelling under the skin that doctors refer to as angioedema. Dr. Volcheck works on studies to find new and effective treatments for these conditions.
Professional highlights
- U.S. delegate, management board, The International Suspected Perioperative Anaphylactic Reaction Group, 2017-present.
- Member, Anaphylaxis Committee, American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 2011-present.
- Top Performing Clinician in Patient Experience, Mayo Clinic, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025.