Karl Willmann, MD

Karl Willmann, MD, is a UW Health anesthesiologist. He’s also an associate professor in the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. Dr. Willmann administers anesthesia (pain relief) and manages patients’ condition and care before, during and after surgery and minimally invasive procedures. His expertise includes advanced, fellowship-level training in neurosurgical procedures.

Dr. Willmann works with specialized teams who collaborate to treat patients with conditions such as orthopedic (bone, muscle and joint) trauma and complex brain, spine and nervous system disorders.

During surgery, he monitors the patient’s breathing, heart rate and medical condition, ensuring safe and effective levels of anesthesia. He manages patient care throughout critical stages of surgery and post-operative recovery. His role includes personalized care and pain management after surgery to keep patients as safe and comfortable as possible while they heal.

In addition to his clinical and teaching roles, Dr. Willmann conducts research to advance anesthetic care. He focuses on studying new techniques to secure and establish the airway and ventilation during surgery. He also evaluates the effectiveness of new technologies such as electroencephalogram (EEG) monitoring devices.