Kathryn M. Van Abel
Mayo Clinic, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, University of Minnesota Rochester, WinnMed
Papers
17
Total Citations
456
H-Index
12
About
Dr. Kathryn M. Van Abel is a leading head and neck surgeon whose research has fundamentally advanced the field of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for oropharyngeal cancer, particularly in patients with HPV-positive disease. Her work has been instrumental in establishing TORS as a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery, demonstrating excellent oncologic outcomes—including clear surgical margins and favorable survival rates—while significantly reducing patient morbidity. With over 400 citations across her most influential papers, Dr. Van Abel’s impact is clear. She has pioneered the evaluation of new robotic platforms, such as the da Vinci single-port system (50 citations), and has been at the forefront of critical efforts to de-escalate treatment for HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer, aiming to reduce long-term toxicities like swallowing dysfunction without compromising cure rates. Her landmark study on TORS for recurrent tumors in previously irradiated fields (RECUT) further showcases her commitment to expanding surgical options for the most challenging cases. Through her rigorous clinical research and leadership in multi-institutional trials, Dr. Van Abel continues to shape the standard of care, offering patients improved functional outcomes and quality of life.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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