Papers
3
Total Citations
29
H-Index
3
About
Doreen Lam is a leading surgical oncologist whose research focuses on human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), with particular expertise in transoral robotic surgery (TORS) and free flap reconstruction. Her landmark 2024 study on preoperative circulating tumor tissue-modified viral HPV DNA (TTMV-HPV DNA) established a novel biomarker for predicting disease burden in HPV+ OPSCC, demonstrating that preoperative viral DNA levels correlate with pathologic tumor extent—a finding with 13 citations that is reshaping preoperative risk stratification. Lam’s clinical research has transformed understanding of functional recovery after TORS with free flap reconstruction: her 2024 analysis of 241 patients (10 citations) identified key patterns of swallowing and speech restoration, while her 2025 case-controlled study (6 citations) showed that free flap reconstruction can safely preserve function even in anatomically complex cases involving retropharyngeal carotid arteries. By demonstrating that vessel coverage does not compromise oncologic outcomes in early-stage HPV+ OPSCC, Lam has expanded surgical options for patients with challenging anatomy. Her work bridges biomarker-driven precision medicine and advanced reconstructive techniques, positioning her as a leading voice in de-escalation strategies for HPV-associated head and neck cancers.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1
- 2
- 3