Professional Role and Current Positions
Dr. Gilbertas Rimkus serves as the Medical Director of Trauma Services at Conway Medical Center (CMC) in Conway, South Carolina, a role he has held since January 2014. In addition, he is a Partner at Associates in Surgery since October 2008. His primary clinical focus is in general surgery, including trauma, hernia, breast, and robotic surgery. Dr. Rimkus is actively involved in the advancement of surgical practices at CMC, notably embracing robotic surgery technology, which reflects his interest in innovative surgical techniques.
Educational Background and Training
- Medical Degree: Vilnius University Faculty of Medicine, Lithuania, graduated in 1993.
- Internship: St. Francis Medical Center, transitional year, 1996–1997.
- Residency: Surgery at Temple University Western Pennsylvania Hospital (Allegheny Health Network Medical Education Consortium), 1997–2002.
Certifications and Licensure
- Board Certified by the American Board of Surgery.
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) since at least 2012.
- Member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons.
- Holds active medical licenses in:
- South Carolina (valid through 2027)
- North Carolina (valid through 2025)
- Pennsylvania (1997–2002, no longer active).
Experience
Dr. Rimkus has over 30 years of clinical experience in general surgery. Prior to relocating permanently to South Carolina, he practiced general medicine and surgery in underserved areas as part of his U.S. training requirements. He initially worked as a head and neck surgeon in Lithuania before moving to the U.S. His tenure at CMC and Associates in Surgery spans more than 15 years, reflecting deep integration within the Horry County medical community. His leadership as Medical Director of Trauma Services aligns with CMC’s status as a regional leader in trauma and critical care services, which includes national recognition for excellence in stroke and trauma care.
Clinical and Professional Interests
Dr. Rimkus maintains broad surgical interests with particular focus on:
- Trauma surgery and acute care surgery leadership.
- General surgery procedures including hernia repair and breast surgery.
- Implementation and training for robotic surgical techniques.
- Improving patient care outcomes through multidisciplinary approaches and surgical innovation.
Research and Publications
Dr. Rimkus has authored or co-authored publications related to gastrointestinal conditions, including:
- A 2022 publication titled “Complicated Diverticulitis With Associated Small Bowel Obstruction: A Case Report” (Cureus).
- Citation in related surgical research indicating involvement in clinical case studies on diverticulitis and small bowel complications.
His professional profile reflects a scholarly engagement, although publication volume appears limited based on available data.
Recognitions and Awards
- Meaningful Use Stage 1 Certification by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (2012).
- Fellowship in the American College of Surgeons (FACS), a key recognition of surgical expertise and ethical standards.
Professional Network and Influence
- Dr. Rimkus has approximately 40 professional followers on LinkedIn, indicating a modest but relevant professional network within the medical and surgical communities.
- He is based in the Myrtle Beach area and practices at two key locations for Conway Medical Center Surgical Associates: the main facility in Conway and a secondary site in Socastee, SC.
Personal Context Relevant to Professional Approach
- Raised and initiated medical training in Lithuania during a challenging geopolitical period (Russian occupation), with his transition to the U.S. healthcare system beginning in 1996.
- His experience includes adapting to underserved communities, suggesting a strong grounding in practical, resource-limited healthcare delivery.
- Demonstrates an ongoing commitment to embracing technology and surgical innovation to enhance patient care quality.
Contact Information
- Office Phone: +1 (843) 347-7291
- Primary Office Address: 2361 Cypress Circle, Conway, SC 29526
- Secondary Location: 6010 Highway 707, Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
This profile consolidates Dr. Rimkus’s key professional credentials, clinical experience, and leadership roles at Conway Medical Center. His expertise in trauma surgery administration and interest in robotic surgery reflect both clinical authority and an orientation toward technological advancement, relevant to hospital initiatives and surgical service expansion.
