About

David J. Goldberg, MD, is a Professor of Pediatrics (Cardiology) at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. He serves as an Attending Physician in the Division of Cardiology and is the Medical Director of the Cardiac Care Unit at the same institution. His department is Pediatrics, and his contact information includes an office at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, located at 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104-4399, with phone number 267-426-8143 and email address goldbergda@chop.edu. Dr. Goldberg's educational background includes a BA in Economics from Amherst College (1996) and an MD from Rutgers University Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (2001). His professional focus is on pediatric cardiology, with a particular emphasis on congenital heart disease and related research.

Research topics

• Medicine
• Internal medicine
• Intensive care medicine
• Urology
• Pediatrics
• Surgery
• Endocrinology
• Nuclear medicine

Selected publications

• Review of Hybrid Fractional Ablative and Non‐Ablative Resurfacing Lasers in Aesthetic Dermatology

  Dermatological Reviews · 2026-04-01

  articleSenior authorCorresponding

  ABSTRACT Background Hybrid resurfacing lasers have emerged as a novel modality to deliver ablative and non‐ablative emissions simultaneously with reduced downtime and improved tolerability compared to traditional single‐wavelength technologies. Despite increasing clinical use, their efficacy and safety has not been comprehensively reviewed. Objectives To evaluate published clinical evidence on hybrid fractional laser systems combining ablative and non‐ablative wavelengths for dermatological applications. Methods A systematic search of PubMed was performed for English‐language clinical studies published from 1992 to 2025 assessing hybrid fractional ablative/non‐ablative lasers for cutaneous applications. Eligible study types included clinical trials, prospective or retrospective observational studies. Exclusion criteria included use of adjunctive procedures, non‐cutaneous treatment areas, preclinical studies, conference abstracts, case reports, and small case series (< 10 patients). Data was extracted on study design, device parameters, clinical outcomes, adverse events and patient satisfaction. Results Ten studies ( n = 344 patients; Fitzpatrick skin types I‐V) met inclusion criteria. Six studies addressed photoaging and four studies treated acne, traumatic, surgical or striae distensae scars. All studies demonstrated clinical improvements across validated aesthetic scales. Mean downtime was < 7 days in nearly all cohorts. The overall adverse event rate was 7.9% (23/291), predominantly transient post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Patient satisfaction was consistently high and hybrid treatments were preferred over fractional ablative‐only resurfacing in comparative studies due to reduced discomfort, faster recovery, and similar or superior outcomes. Conclusions Current evidence supports hybrid fractional lasers as effective and well‐tolerated treatments for photoaging and scarring. Larger controlled trials with standardized parameters are needed to refine treatment algorithms and optimize ablative‐to‐non‐ablative emission ratios.

  PublisherDOI

• Cosmeceuticals and Other Techniques to Reduce Bruising From Surgical and Cosmetic Procedures

  Dermatological Reviews · 2025-01-14 · 3 citations

  articleOpen access

  ABSTRACT Background Bruising is the most common adverse event experienced after cosmetic procedures, dermatologic surgeries, and other surgeries. Bruising can cause significant distress to a patient and may be the reason for unnecessary additional office visits. AIM This review aims to outline the therapeutic remedies and prevention methods to decrease bruising after cosmetic procedures and other surgeries as described in the literature. A thorough in‐depth understanding of the treatment of bruising can help improve the patient experience. Methods A literature search was conducted on PubMed reviewing remedies for bruising postsurgical and cosmetic procedures in the dermatological field. Results A broad variety of remedies for reducing and alleviating bruising after a procedure exist. These treatments include cold compression, ReFORM and RePAIR, various lasers, herbal supplements including Arnica Montana , inhance postinjection serum, vitamin K, peroxide, and tranexamic acid. Results are varied but do show there are treatment options to alleviate bruising. Conclusions Physicians performing dermatologic procedures, cosmetic injections, or other surgeries should be aware of the causes and supported remedies for bruising. By understanding the many options out there to decrease bruising, providers can help alleviate the distress that it often causes patients.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• Threads in Aesthetic Medicine: A Review

  Dermatological Reviews · 2025-07-22

  reviewSenior authorCorresponding

  ABSTRACT Background Threads have been an integral part of aesthetic medicine for years, offering a minimally invasive solution to lift, tighten, and rejuvenate the skin. Their popularity continues to grow as technology advances, providing more options for patients seeking natural, yet noticeable, results. Methods This review will begin by exploring the fundamentals of threads: what they are, how they work, and why they have become a valuable tool in aesthetic medicine. We will examine the different types of threads available in the market, comparing their unique features, materials, and mechanisms of action. Results FDA‐cleared indications for threads will be discussed, highlighting their safety, efficacy, and the procedural nuances that contribute to optimal outcomes. A discussion on the various types of threads will focus on their specific applications and benefits for both patients and practitioners. Several photographic examples from clinical patients who provided consent to do so will be provided. Since this was not a study but rather a review of the literature no approval was needed by a local ethics board. Conclusion This review will also explore the future of threads in aesthetic medicine, from innovations in thread technology to expanding indications and techniques.

  PublisherDOI

• Improvement in Atopic Dermatitis Using a Novel Topical 2% Cannabidiol (CBD) Application

  Dermatological Reviews · 2025-03-24

  articleOpen accessSenior authorCorresponding

  ABSTRACT Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by Th2‐type inflammation, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. Patients often experience dryness, severe itching, and skin lesions, necessitating interventions to manage discomfort and flare‐ups. Common treatments, such as topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors, are effective but have adverse effects, making them unsuitable for long‐term use. Consequently, there is an ongoing effort to find sustainable and safe alternative treatments. Recently, cannabidiol (CBD), a non‐psychoactive compound derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, has gained attention in dermatology for its anti‐inflammatory properties. Methods This pilot study utilized a 4‐week open‐label observational prospective cohort design to evaluate the effects of a 2% CBD cream‐based topical application in patients ( n = 19) with moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis. Participants were given the topical CBD product to apply daily to affected areas and were examined at baseline, week 1, week 2, week 4, and week 8. Primary outcomes measured included the appearance of eczema lesions and patient satisfaction with the treatment. Results Participants reported improvements in skin hydration, comfort, inflammation relief, and overall skin appearance. Various objective evaluations and clinical photography were consistent with patient reported improvement. Conclusions These results support the potential of CBD as a sustainable and effective treatment option for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• 440: 90 DAY OUTCOMES OF BARIATRIC SURGERY IN CIRRHOSIS AND PORTAL HYPERTENSION AS A BRIDGE TO LIVER TRANSPLANTATION

  Gastroenterology · 2025-05-01

  article
  PublisherDOI

• High-Intensity, High-Frequency, Parallel Ultrasound Beams for Facial Acne Scars

  Dermatologic Surgery · 2025-03-28

  article

  BACKGROUND: Ultrasound energy can improve the clinical appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, eyebrow laxity, submental laxity, and cellulite. Ultrasound waves of high intensity can cause thermal injury in the dermis to induce neocollagenesis. OBJECTIVE: To examine the utility of a novel ultrasound device that uses high-intensity, high-frequency, parallel ultrasound beams to improve the clinical appearance of facial acne scars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective, multicenter, clinical study investigated this novel ultrasound device using up to 3 treatments. RESULTS: Sixty-three subjects completed at least 2 treatments. The mean age was 38 years, and 64.2% were women. Fitzpatrick skin types I to VI were represented. Assessments compared baseline with 3-month follow-up. Two of 3 blinded reviewers agreed in identifying pretreatment and post-treatment photographs for 96.8% of subjects ( p < .0001), who were considered responders. For the overall mean acne scar severity score, there was a significant reduction of 1.05 units, from 2.31 to 1.26 ( p < .001). This represents a reduction of 45.5%. No device-related adverse events occurred. CONCLUSION: A novel ultrasound device that uses high-intensity, high-frequency, parallel ultrasound beams can safely and effectively improve facial acne scars.

  PublisherDOI

• Adipose Mesenchymal Stem Cell‐Derived Exosomes Versus Platelet‐Rich Plasma Treatment for Photoaged Facial Skin: An Investigator‐Blinded, Split‐Face, Non‐Inferiority Trial

  Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology · 2025-05-01 · 16 citations

  articleOpen accessSenior authorCorresponding

  BACKGROUND: Exosomes, an emerging treatment of interest to aesthetic dermatology, have therapeutic applications in skin rejuvenation, alopecia, atopic dermatitis, acne scarring, and wound healing. Platelet-rich plasma has been widely utilized for the same indications, among others. Currently, there are no trials comparing the two regenerative modalities in aesthetic dermatology. AIMS: To compare the efficacy and safety of adipose mesenchymal stem cell-derived (ASC) exosomes versus platelet-rich plasma for photoaged facial skin. METHODS: An investigator-blinded, split-face trial was conducted. Participants with mild to moderate photoaging underwent three radiofrequency microneedling treatments with PRP and topical exosomes each applied to one half of the face. RESULTS: Both exosomes and PRP equally improved wrinkling, dyschromia, erythema, texture, and overall skin appearance. Histological analysis confirmed increased collagen I and glycosaminoglycans, without significant differences between treatment arms. CONCLUSION: ASC exosomes are a promising PRP-alternative that may be attractive to needle-averse patients and can hasten the office visit duration, as phlebotomy and centrifugation are not required.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• Methylated Arginine Metabolites as Biomarkers for Clinical Status and Response to Type 5 Phosphodiesterase Inhibition in Patients With Fontan Circulation

  Journal of the American Heart Association · 2025-03-26 · 1 citations

  articleOpen access

  BACKGROUND: There is significant interest in NO pathway modulators, specifically type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitors (PDE5is), to treat patients with a Fontan circulation. Trials, however, have had mixed results. The relationship between the NO pathway and clinical status in patients with Fontan circulation is a significant knowledge gap. METHODS AND RESULTS: We performed targeted metabolomic analysis using liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry to quantify plasma NO pathway metabolite concentrations from 2 well-characterized populations of patients with Fontan circulation: the Boston Adult Congenital Heart Disease Biobank and Fontan Udenafil Exercise Longitudinal studies. We investigated associations between NO metabolite concentrations and clinical outcomes, exercise capacity, and response to PDE5is. Increased plasma concentration of asymmetric dimethyl arginine (ADMA), an inhibitor of NO production, was associated with risk for hospitalization or death. Increased ADMA and symmetric dimethyl arginine (another inhibitor of NO production) concentrations were associated with decreased baseline exercise capacity among patients with Fontan circulation with <90% predicted peak oxygen uptake, and change in ADMA and symmetric dimethyl arginine concentrations were predictive of change in exercise capacity over time. Treatment with the PDE5i udenafil uncoupled this association. Finally, baseline ADMA and symmetric dimethyl arginine concentrations predicted response to PDE5is among patients with subnormal peak oxygen uptake. CONCLUSIONS: Plasma concentrations of metabolites that inhibit NO flux are associated with negative clinical outcomes and worse exercise capacity. Moreover, metabolite shifts over time associated with increased NO flux are associated with improved exercise capacity. In patients with a Fontan circulation, the NO pathway modulators ADMA and symmetric dimethyl arginine may be useful as biomarkers of clinical status and predictive of response to PDE5is.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• Trends in Paradoxical Hypertrichosis as a Result of Energy‐Based Hair Removal Devices

  Dermatological Reviews · 2025-05-21 · 1 citations

  articleOpen accessSenior author

  ABSTRACT Background Laser hair removal has been regarded as a relatively safe and effective treatment for the removal of unwanted body hair. While there are a variety of reported side effects like post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation or erythema, a rare and underreported complication is paradoxical hypertrichosis (PH). PH involves the unexpected increase of hair in or near the treatment area following laser hair removal. The mechanism behind this phenomenon is not fully understood but is important to address to improve treatment outcomes and minimize the occurrence of PH. Objective This paper aims to consolidate and analyze literature pertaining to PH as a side effect resulting from laser hair removal (LHR), focusing on identifying commonalities and trends. Materials and Methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted utilizing the PubMed database, employing keywords such as “laser paradoxical effect” and “paradoxical hypertrichosis.” The gathered findings were synthesized and are presented in this review. Results The Alexandrite and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) lasers are frequently associated with inducing PH. PH predominantly manifests in facial and neck regions, with sporadic occurrences on other body areas, notably the upper arms and periareolar region. Patients with darker skin tones, particularly Fitzpatrick Skin Types III−VI, and those with hormonal imbalances such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), are more predisposed to experiencing PH after LHR. Proposed preventive measures include sun protection and avoiding shaving before LHR sessions. Continuation of LHR treatments on affected areas is the standard approach for treating PH. Conclusion PH, although rare, poses a tangible side effect of LHR, occurring in about 3% of patients. The literature highlights specific regions of the body and laser types associated with PH, alongside potential patient predispositions. Further research is warranted to elucidate preventive strategies and enhance patient satisfaction and trust in LHR procedures.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• The Efficacy and Safety of Synchronous Parallel Ultrasound for the Clinical Improvement of Cellulite Using High‐Density Handpiece

  Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology · 2025-12-01 · 1 citations

  articleOpen accessSenior author

  BACKGROUND: Cellulite is a common aesthetic condition of the skin, predominantly affecting more than 90% of postpubertal females. Energy-based devices (EBDs) have demonstrated efficacy in treating a variety of dermatologic concerns. A controlled thermal injury to the dermis can stimulate remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM), leading to skin tightening, an effect that may improve the dimpled appearance of cellulite. OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy and safety of synchronous parallel ultrasound using a high-density handpiece for improving cellulite appearance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty subjects, aged 23-65, were enrolled in a prospective, open-label, non-randomized, multicenter study. Subjects underwent two treatment sessions using a novel ultrasonic system equipped with a new high-density handpiece, applied on either one side or both sides of the thighs and/or buttocks. The follow-up period extended up to 3 months after the second treatment. Clinical improvements were evaluated by three blinded physicians based on baseline and follow-up photographs, using the Cellulite Severity Scale (CSS), Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), and Laxity Scale (LS). Satisfaction questionnaires were completed by subjects. Treatment discomfort was rated immediately after treatment using the Numerical Scale Response (NSR). RESULTS: Sixty subjects, with a mean age of 47, were enrolled in the study. GAIS results showed improvement in 91% of the treated areas, CSS score improved by 69%, while LS score improved by 53%. Most subjects (73%) reported satisfaction. Mean pain score was 4.26 ± 2.33. No serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION: The novel ultrasound system was found to be effective and safe for improving cellulite appearance.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

Recent grants

• A population-based cohort to study outcomes in end-stage liver disease patients

  NIH · $786k · 2013–2018

Frequent coauthors

• David J. Malenka

  Dartmouth–Hitchcock Medical Center

  112 shared

• John F. Robb

  Dartmouth–Hitchcock Medical Center

  112 shared

• William J. Phillips

  University of Ottawa

  111 shared

• Harold L. Dauerman

  University of Vermont Medical Center

  106 shared

• Frank A Fedele

  Dartmouth–Hitchcock Medical Center

  105 shared

• Richard A Boss

  103 shared

• M. Peter Verlee

  University of Vermont Medical Center

  100 shared

• Winthrop D. Piper

  Concord Hospital

  100 shared