Colleen M. Kiernan

Vanderbilt University Medical Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Colleen M. Kiernan is a surgical researcher whose work is advancing the fields of endocrine surgery and minimally invasive techniques, with a particular focus on adrenal disease and robotic-assisted procedures. Her major contributions center on improving surgical outcomes for patients with hypercortisolism, including Cushing’s syndrome, where she has helped clarify best practices for adrenalectomy to control cortisol levels and mitigate end-organ damage. Kiernan has also pioneered the use of near-infrared autofluorescence for label-free, real-time visualization of adrenal glands during surgery, a technique that enhances precision and reduces reliance on subjective visual cues or contrast agents. Her studies on the surgeon learning curve for robotic adrenalectomy, cited 11 times, provide critical insights for training and adoption of these advanced approaches. Additionally, her work on the pelvis-first approach for robotic proctectomy addresses technical challenges in colorectal surgery. With a growing citation record and contributions to clinical guidelines, Kiernan is shaping safer, more effective surgical care for complex endocrine and colorectal conditions.