Welcome to ALKIMIYA
Alkimiya is the Tagalog word for "alchemy," the ancient tradition of combining different elements with the goal of transforming them into something new. The idea of modern alchemy suits our practice well — by combining advanced surgical interventions with time-honored traditions of holistic care that promote efficient recovery and general health maintenance. We aspire to transform the blocked energy of the root to anorectal wellness for everyone.
Meet Our Founder
Carlos San Mateo, MD, MA, FACS, DABS, FASCRS is a highly accomplished double board-certified colorectal and general surgeon, renowned for his expertise in anorectal procedures and preventive cancer screening. With a distinguished educational background, including a Doctor of Medicine from Boston University School of Medicine, and a fellowship in Colon & Rectal Surgery from the University of South Florida, Dr. San Mateo has established himself as a leader in his field. He is the founder of Alkimiya Surgical Systems, PC. He currently serves as the Director of the Anal Dysplasia Clinic at Kaiser Permanente San Francisco where he spearheads advanced High Resolution Anoscopy (HRA) screening procedures for HPV-related anal cancer. He is also a member of the regional committee developing anal cancer screening guidelines for all of the KP members of Northern California.
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Dr. San Mateo's professional journey is marked by a series of prestigious roles and impactful contributions to colorectal surgery. He has held pivotal positions at Kaiser Permanente San Rafael Medical Center, where he was the primary colorectal surgery specialist for the entire Sonoma and Marin County service areas and also lead surgeon consultant for the Senior Surgical Care Program. At Kaiser Permanente Vallejo Medical Center, he cared for patients as a rectal cancer minimally invasive surgeon. His academic contributions include tenure as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of Miami School of Medicine, where he played a vital role in educating and mentoring the next generation of surgeons and medical students. He was honored with the "Attending of the Year" teaching award by the general surgery chief residents. His commitment to advancing surgical practices is further evidenced by his numerous publications and presentations at national and international conferences.
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In addition to his clinical and academic achievements, Dr. San Mateo is deeply involved in community service and professional societies. He has volunteered extensively, including at JIN’s Haven care-home and the Boston University School of Medicine Outreach Van Project, and has been a member of several professional organizations such as the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, International Anal Neoplasia Society, and the American College of Surgeons. His dedication to both his profession and his community highlights his holistic care approach to anorectal wellness, combining technical expertise with compassionate patient care.
