George Merriman, MD FACS FASMBS

Know Your Surgeon: The most experienced Robotic and Advanced Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgeon in the Ark-La-Tex region Has performed over 8000 Bariatric cases Recognized "Center of Excellence" by MBSAQIP Recognized as a BLISCare Best in Class Surgeons The first local Bariatric Surgeon certified on the DaVinci Xi robotic operating system First surgeon in the Christus Network to perform robotic bariatric surgery LINX reflux device placement specialist Highly Experienced robotic and laparoscopic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive surgery for bariatrics, gall bladder removal, hernia repair and reflux/heartburn surgical procedures. Biography: Dr. Merriman was born in Louisiana but grew up all over the South, including Arkansas, Texas and Alabama. After his medical training, Dr. Merriman returned to his roots in Louisiana and joined The Mason-Itzig Clinic in 1992. After Dr. Itzig retired, the practiced changed its name to Surgical Specialists of Shreveport, LLC. He has always been interested in all things technological, fostering his early interest in laparoscopy as well as surgical robotics. He is dedicated to remaining on the "cutting edge" of knowledge and innovation in his area of surgery. He entertains himself with his inborn love of music (he has been an accomplished drummer since the age of 12), movies (especially sci-fi and westerns), speaking (he was the national college debate champion of 1983) and the Green Bay Packers (having made several "pilgrimages" to the frozen tundra of Lambeau field). Philosophy: Dr. Merriman's well-rounded life experiences foster his commitment to treating his patients as more than their disease by following a simple philosophy — always treat people as an end unto themselves, and never as a means to an end. Education: M.D. (1992) - Medical School & Surgery Residency - University of Alabama Hospitals (Birmingham, AL) B.S. Chemistry (1983) - Southern Methodist University (Dallas, TX) Credentials: Board Certified, Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) Fellow, American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery (FASMBS) Recognized "Center of Excellence" by the Surgical Review Corporation Member, Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) Member, Louisiana State Medical Society Member, Shreveport Medical Society Former Board of Director, Shreveport Medical Society