Axel Thors, D.O., F.A.C.S., R.P.V.I.

Professional Background

Dr. Axel Thors, D.O., F.A.C.S., R.P.V.I., serves as Program Director of the Vascular Surgery Fellowship and Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of Kansas Health System. He is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery in Vascular Surgery, holds additional certification in vascular ultrasound interpretation as a Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation (RPVI), and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (F.A.C.S.).
Dr. Thors earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine, completed general surgery residency at Good Samaritan Hospital TriHealth, and pursued fellowship training in vascular surgery at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
As Program Director, he has successfully developed and expanded the ACGME-accredited Vascular Surgery Fellowship, now preparing to welcome its third matched fellow. He serves on the Issues Committee of the Association of Program Directors in Vascular Surgery (APDVS) and contributes nationally as a speaker and advisor for leading industry partners, including Shockwave Medical and Terumo Medical. Dr. Thors maintains a high-volume clinical practice at the University of Kansas Hospital focused on complex open and endovascular procedures, with particular emphasis on delivering high-value care at the main campus. He is actively engaged in education across the continuum, mentoring medical students, general surgery residents, vascular fellows, and allied health professionals. He also leads the Vascular Research Group, supporting collaborative, high-impact studies that advance evidence-based vascular care.

• DO, Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Residency, General Surgery, Good Samaritan Hospital/Trihealth, Cincinnati, OH
• Clinical Fellowship, Vascular Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH

Research

Overview

Dr. Thors is a member of the Vascular Research Group at the University of Kansas, organizing regular interdisciplinary meetings with faculty, fellows, and residents to drive clinical and translational research. His collaborative work with Interventional Radiology, Interventional Cardiology, and Cardiothoracic Surgery focuses on innovative endovascular technologies, clinical outcomes optimization, and quality improvement in complex aortic and peripheral vascular disease.
Recent scholarly contributions include multiple peer-reviewed publications and national podium presentations. Dr. Thors prioritizes research mentorship, helping trainees build strong scholarly portfolios alongside clinical excellence. He is committed to expanding research infrastructure and partnerships that translate findings into improved patient protocols and multidisciplinary care pathways.