Dr. Carlos M. A. San Mateo, MD, MA, FACS, DABS, FASCRS

Media Releases

Combining Advanced Techniques with Holistic Care for Comprehensive Patient Health

Carlos M. A. San Mateo, MD, MA, FACS, DABS, FASCRS, a distinguished double board-certified colorectal and general surgeon, proudly announces the launch of Alkimiya Surgical Systems, P.C. Located in the heart of San Jose, this innovative surgical practice aims to revolutionize the approach to anorectal procedures and preventive cancer screening by integrating advanced surgical techniques with the ancient wisdom of holistic health practices.

The term “Alkimiya,” derived from Tagalog, signifies “alchemy”—the transformative process of combining different elements to create something new. Dr. San Mateo embodies this concept by merging state-of-the-art surgical interventions with time-honored traditions that promote efficient recovery and overall health maintenance. “My mission is to transform the blocked energy of the root to anorectal wellness for everyone,” says Dr. San Mateo, highlighting his commitment to patient-centered care that addresses both physical and emotional well-being.

Dr. San Mateo’s extensive qualifications and experience set him apart in the field of colorectal surgery. He currently serves as the Director of the Anal Dysplasia Clinic at Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, where he leads advanced High Resolution Anoscopy (HRA) screening procedures for HPV-related anal cancer. In collaboration with a regional committee of experts, he is also instrumental in developing anal cancer screening guidelines for Kaiser Permanente members throughout Northern California.

Dr. San Mateo began his academic journey at Northgate High School in Walnut Creek, graduating in 1998. He then pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Nutritional Sciences with an emphasis on Physiology and Biochemistry from the University of California, Berkeley, where he was an active member of the University of California Marching Band, completing his studies in 2002.

Building on his undergraduate foundation, Dr. San Mateo earned a Master’s Degree in Medical Sciences from Boston University School of Medicine in 2004, and continued his education at the same institution, obtaining his Doctor of Medicine Degree in 2009. 

Following medical school, Dr. San Mateo began his preliminary surgical training in general surgery at the University of Washington Medical Center. He then completed categorical general surgery resident training at Banner – University of Arizona Medical Center in Tucson, graduating as a chief resident in 2014. To further specialize, he undertook a fellowship in colorectal surgery at the University of South Florida at Tampa General Hospital from 2014 to 2015, gaining advanced expertise in the treatment of anorectal conditions, and training in minimally invasive surgery for colorectal cancer and diverticular disease.

Throughout his career, Dr. San Mateo has held pivotal roles in various medical centers, including Kaiser Permanente San Rafael Medical Center, where he served as the primary colorectal surgery specialist for Sonoma and Marin County areas, and lead surgeon consultant for the Senior Surgical Care Program. He also contributed as a rectal cancer minimally invasive surgeon at Kaiser Permanente Vallejo Medical Center. Recognized for his commitment to education, Dr. San Mateo was a Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of Miami School of Medicine, receiving accolades such as the “Attending of the Year” Teaching Award.

In addition to his clinical and academic endeavors, Dr. San Mateo dedicates significant time to community service and professional associations. His volunteer work spans multiple organizations, including JIN’s Haven care home and the Boston University School of Medicine Outreach Van Project. He is also an active member of esteemed professional organizations, including the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, the International Anal Neoplasia Society, and the American College of Surgeons. His commitment to advancing surgical practices is further evidenced by his numerous publications and presentations at national and international conferences.

Alkimiya Surgical Systems is dedicated to more than just surgical precision—it embodies a holistic care approach to health that empowers patients in their healing journey. Under the leadership of Dr. San Mateo, the practice prioritizes compassionate care and innovative treatment solutions, positioning itself as a premier provider of anorectal wellness in California.

Recommended Articles

• What is a Virtual Colonoscopy?

  Also referred to as a VC, a virtual colonoscopy is an x-ray test that detects polyps, cancer or other disorders in the colon. Colonography is the medical term for this test.How It's DoneThere is a difference between an ordinary colonoscopy and a virtual colonoscopy. The ordinary colonoscopy uses a...

• Anal Fissures: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Risks

  An anal fissure is a the tear or ulcer in the anal canal’s lining. The anal canal forms the end of the large bowel and lies between the rectum and the anus.Symptoms of Anal FissureThe following are the most prominent symptoms of anal fissures:...

• What Occurs During The Different Stages of Prostate Cancer?

  What Occurs During The Different Stages of Prostate Cancer?Prostate cancer is an infection of the prostate which causes abnormal growth of cells on the prostate gland. Prostate cancer is known to inhabit the body of an individual for a long time before displaying any symptoms. During the first...

• Colonoscopy: What to Expect During Recovery

  A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure, wherein the rectum and the large intestine are checked. You do not need to stay overnight at the hospital or clinic unless your doctor needs to have additional tests done or needs you to be monitored for a short while.A colonoscopy can be used to identify...

• Colon Cancer

  What is colon cancer?Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine, also known as the colon. If the last segment of the colon, the rectum, has a cancerous growth, it is known as rectal carcinoma. These two conditions are collectively referred to as colorectal cancer.Carcinoma of the colon is the...

• Recovering From Anal Fissure Surgery

  An anal fissure is normally the result of the overstretching of the anal mucosa or moist tissue. It can overstretch due to a number of reasons such as passing extra-large and/or hard stools, constipation, low blood flow to the area, excessive diarrhea, dietary choices, and childbirth among others....