Otolaryngologist – Head & Neck Surgeon
Dr. Kedar A. Kakodkar is a highly experienced and dedicated otolaryngologist with a specialization in both adult and pediatric care. He has extensive clinical experience, having worked in various settings including community care, private practice, and academic institutions. Dr. Kakodkar has also demonstrated leadership in his field, serving as the Chairman of the Department of Surgery at St. Catherine Hospital in East Chicago, IN, from 2019 to 2024.
Education & Training
Dr. Kakodkar earned his Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences & Neuroscience from The University of Chicago, followed by a Master of Science in Applied Physiology from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science. He went on to complete his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at The Chicago Medical School. His residency in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery was completed at The University of Illinois at Chicago, where he also pursued a fellowship in Pediatric Otolaryngology at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.
Clinical & Academic Experience
Dr. Kakodkar has held multiple clinical and academic positions throughout his career, including attending physician roles at Suburban Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists and extensive service within the Community Care Network Department of Surgery. As a leader in surgical services at St. Catherine Hospital, he has contributed to the advancement of patient care and surgical practices in the region. He has also been actively involved in medical education, having served as a teaching assistant and mentor throughout his academic journey.
Research & Publications
Dr. Kakodkar’s research contributions span multiple areas within otolaryngology and related fields, including cochlear structure in congenital hypothyroidism, the diagnosis of postoperative cystoid macular edema, and innovative surgical approaches in pediatric airway management. His work has been featured in leading medical journals such as Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery and Laryngoscope. He has also contributed a book chapter on pediatric airway surgery.
Professional Recognition
Dr. Kakodkar’s dedication to the medical field has been recognized with several honors, including induction into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. He is board-certified in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery and is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology, and the North American Skull Base Society.
Interests & Volunteer Work
Outside of his clinical practice, Dr. Kakodkar is passionate about travel and volunteering, particularly in providing medical care to underserved communities. He participated in a pediatric otolaryngology surgical mission to Vietnam in 2012. He enjoys sports, including basketball, running, and playing drums.
Dr. Kakodkar’s combination of clinical expertise, leadership, and commitment to global health makes him a trusted physician in the field of otolaryngology.
