David Song

Papers

Total Citations

112

H-Index

About

David Song is a pioneering robotic surgeon whose work has transformed reconstructive and urologic surgery. His research centers on minimally invasive techniques for complex tissue harvest and nerve reconstruction, with a particular focus on improving functional outcomes after cancer surgery. Song’s most influential contribution is the development of robotic, intraperitoneal harvest of the rectus abdominis muscle (75 citations), a landmark study that demonstrated how robotic platforms can eliminate the need for large abdominal incisions in flap harvesting—preserving the anterior rectus sheath and reducing donor-site morbidity. This work has become a foundational reference for surgeons seeking to combine oncologic resection with aesthetic and functional preservation. In urologic oncology, Song has advanced the field of nerve-sparing prostatectomy through his investigations of sural nerve interposition grafting during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. His 2008 study (26 citations) and interim report (11 citations) provided early evidence that nerve reconstruction could restore sexual function in men requiring wide excision of the neurovascular bundle for high-risk prostate cancer. By rigorously evaluating both oncologic and functional outcomes, Song has helped establish robotic nerve grafting as a viable strategy for preserving quality of life without compromising cancer control. His work bridges reconstructive microsurgery and robotic technology, offering patients less invasive options with better recovery.