I was found to have a malignant polyp by colonoscopy.I needed a left hemicolectomy,so wanting the best I went to Dr. David Berger at MGH.He or one of his fellows managed to devascularize too much of my bowel and left me with an ischemic colitis and a partial bowel obstruction.As a retired neurosurgeun I managed to get myself admitted to Tufts medical Center where a very competent colorectal surgeon (Dr.Melnitchouk)repaired the botched up surgery with a second operation.She literally saved my life.I'm sure that if I had stayed at MGH I would have ended up in the morgue.Physician friends of mine who have been affiliated with MGH tell me most of the surgery is done by residents & fellows.My advice is AVOID MGH & BUTCHER BERGER.IT MAYSAVE YOUR LIFE!

Submitted June 17, 2014

Dr. Berger performed surgery on me which resulted in a bad outcome. Dr. Bergers's recommendation in follow up was to return to normal activity. However, I had to consult another surgeon because I was in significant pain after Dr. Berger had dismissed my concerns. The consulting surgeon clearly informed me that the prior surgery had a bad outcome. Contrary to Dr. Berger's comments, the consutling surgeon indicated that I would be in severe pain for a minimum of a year due to the bad outcome. I believe his arrogance and lack of empathy adversly impact his performance.

Submitted Dec. 2, 2013

I do not know why Dr. Berger got bad reviews. He is a typical surgeon "stereotype", very true. But you are looking for a surgeon anyways, right? My husband could have lost half of his testiness in another Doctor's hand with a wide open cut in the abdomen. Some surgeon are looking for patients, they operate with any reason they can find. But luckily, we went to Dr. Berger for a second opinion. I, as someone with medical background, could tell his advise is more appropriate, through, and knowledgeable. I do not care about his bed manner that much, no one is perfect in every aspect of his life. But to us patients, what are we looking for in him is MOST important? He is cool and does great job. Period.

Submitted Nov. 15, 2013

Dr. Berger was extremely professional and competent. I got in to see him in a timely manner. He was very efficient with my appointment and was friendly and reassuring. He answered my questions and made sure I understood every step of the procedure before he continued. His nurse and staff were cheerful and helpful, and also very efficient in helping me schedule follow up appointments. I will definitely return to Dr. Berger for any future procedures I may need of this kind, and would highly recommend him to friends and family.

Submitted May 7, 2013

I am literally just getting home from my second surgery with Dr. Berger in 6 months. One surgery was life threatening and rather a schock - I knew a tough procedure at him and I am alive and healthly 6 weeks later, only to have to go back for another complicated tumor. I owe Dr. Berger my quality of life. By my second surgery I was a wreck, having panic attacks, scared, crying - he consolled me as his staff, ensured my pain would be controlled and successfully removed another life threatening tumor. I was released home yesterday and have a full life ahead of me thanks to Dr. Berger. The most skilled, talented and caring Doctor I have yet to meet. He has my entire family and my greatfulness the rest of our/his life. I have never felt so safe and respected in the way he treated me and walked me through every step. If you want the best, Dr. Berger is just that.

Submitted April 26, 2013

Dr Berger saved my life! Great surgeon very kind and caring. I absolutely love him and highly recommend him.

Submitted April 3, 2013

I am seeing him now and absolutely love him. He is sincere, compassionate and is moving quickly with me to get me well. He walked in the room and introduced himself as "David". I saw no arrogance just a professional, knowledged caring Doctor. Dr. Berger walked in and immediatly was cracking jokes to lighten my mood. I have so much faith in him and can't thank him enough. His staff is also amazing. I would recommend him a 1000 times. He was on time and very efficient. Dr. Berger is amazing.

Submitted Feb. 22, 2013

I was sent to Dr. Berger by 2 other very prominent surgeons who were confounded by my problem. I was terribly frightened and anxious as they had offered me no hope. Dr. Berger was compassionate, kind, and professional. He offered a solution no previous Dr. had thought of and gave me another chance at life. I cannot say enough good things about him. I only pray that I will have the time to get to him (from Connecticut) if I need a surgeon in the future.

Submitted Feb. 3, 2013

I could relate to the other reviews. Most docs seem pretty arrogant they have a lot of special knowledge. So what if he seemed arrogant, I only cared that he performed the surgery well and/or supervised his team well. We happened to meet on the elevator the day of my surgery. He was a regular guy having his morning coffee. He met my family then. He went to the waiting room and told them how I was doing after surgery. He checked in with me and showed concern that I might have a slight infection at the site of my incision. Before and after surgery he answered my highly detailed medical questions honestly, kindly, and with concern. In my first brief meetings I found him rushed, tired and methodical. My surgery was most likely routine. But, he used the latest techniques and was focused the best outcome. I had great pain management from his team of anesthesiologists and Dr Berger's recommendations. I was reluctant, but followed his advise. I thank him for my current quality of life.

Submitted April 3, 2012

If you are looking for 1 stop expert surgeon Berger's is the man. FYI not all surgeon's are created equal. Dr Berger is to the point an you will recieve expert surgical care you can trust. There are so many half assed wanabee surgeon's out there that have good bed side manner. If it is a serious surgical matter best you see Berger for your best chances: You will thank him later.

Submitted Nov. 9, 2011