Laleh G. Melstrom
Papers
16
Total Citations
386
H-Index
10
About
Laleh G. Melstrom is a surgical oncologist whose research sits at the intersection of minimally invasive surgery and oncologic outcomes, with particular expertise in robotic and laparoscopic approaches to gastrointestinal and hepatopancreatic cancers. Her work has significantly advanced our understanding of how emerging surgical technologies translate into real-world clinical benefit, drawing on large national datasets such as the National Cancer Database and the National Inpatient Sample to generate high-impact evidence. Among her most recognized contributions is her comparative analysis of robotic versus laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy, demonstrating comparable oncologic safety while highlighting the advantages of robotic approaches in complex patient populations, including the obese and the frail. Her research on robotic liver resection has pushed the field toward outpatient hepatectomy and optimized cost of care, reflecting a commitment to both clinical innovation and healthcare efficiency. With her most cited work accumulating over 78 citations and a body of work spanning pancreatic, hepatic, gastric, and esophageal surgery, Melstrom has established herself as a leading voice in defining the oncologic and perioperative standards for robotic surgery across general surgical oncology.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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- 5Minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy: greatest benefit for the frail41 citations · 2017
- 6Robotic minor hepatectomy: optimizing outcomes and cost of care29 citations · 2020
- 7Hospital factors strongly influence robotic use in general surgery20 citations · 2019
- 8Robotic versus laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy in obese patients16 citations · 2023
- 9Robotic total pancreatectomy with splenectomy: technique and outcomes16 citations · 2017
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