Susan E. Thomas
Papers
1
Total Citations
20
H-Index
1
About
Dr. Susan E. Thomas is a leading voice in head and neck oncology, with a specialized focus on optimizing functional outcomes for patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Her research critically examines the intersection of surgical innovation and patient quality of life, particularly through the lens of swallowing physiology. In her landmark 2021 study, "Characterizing postoperative physiologic swallow function following transoral robotic surgery for early stage tonsil, base of tongue, and unknown primary HPV-associated squamous cell carcinoma," Dr. Thomas provided one of the first objective, data-driven characterizations of acute swallowing function just three weeks after transoral robotic surgery (TORS). By identifying specific clinical variables that impact swallow components, her work has directly informed postoperative care protocols and patient counseling. This highly cited paper (20 citations) underscores her commitment to evidence-based rehabilitation. Dr. Thomas’s contributions are vital for surgeons and speech-language pathologists seeking to balance oncologic efficacy with the preservation of essential functions, establishing her as a key researcher in the movement toward de-escalation and functional preservation in head and neck cancer care.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1