For almost 50 years, Dr. Fritz Karrer has been wearing a surgeon’s cap, growing as a surgeon alongside the evolution of his specialty. For 40 of those 50 years, he’s been at Children’s Hospital Colorado, making an everlasting impact on kids and their families. On the brink of retirement, we look at his exemplary career and discuss how he’s watched firsthand the progression of pediatric surgery. His half century of perspective makes him the perfect expert to dive into the growth of pediatric surgery.

Dr. Karrer specializes in pediatric surgery and surgical critical care at Children’s Colorado and is a Professor of Pediatric Surgery at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. He’s also a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, he was recognized as a top doctor in 2023 by 5280 Magazine and he’s been awarded the James Strain Award and the Military Medical Merit from the U.S. Army.

Some highlights from this episode include:   

• The incredible journey of Dr. Karrer’s career 
• The ways pediatric surgery has evolved over the last 50 years 
• The influence of technology on pediatric surgery 
• Advice for young doctors wanting to follow a similar path   

For more information on Children’s Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.