Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Ryan Li is a leading surgical oncologist whose research has fundamentally reshaped the treatment of head and neck cancer through the advancement of transoral robotic surgery (TORS). His landmark 2015 study, cited over 300 times, provided critical multi-institutional validation of TORS for managing head and neck malignancies, establishing it as a standard-of-care approach. Li’s work extends beyond oncologic efficacy to patient-centered outcomes; his highly cited 2017 study demonstrated that TORS can preserve long-term functional and quality-of-life measures by potentially sparing patients from adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care, he also pioneered research into postoperative opioid prescribing, with a 2018 study quantifying actual patient needs after thyroid and parathyroid surgery to combat the opioid crisis. His clinical expertise is complemented by a rigorous approach to evidence-based practice, exemplified by a randomized controlled trial on corticosteroids for pain management after TORS. Notably, Li’s research portfolio also includes a groundbreaking 2024 study on robotic microinjection for *C. elegans*, showcasing his versatility in applying robotic technology to large-scale transgenic studies in basic biology. Through his work, Li has not only improved survival and quality of life for cancer patients but also set new standards for responsible surgical care.