Douglas B. Chepeha
University of Toronto, University Health Network, University of Michigan–Ann Arbor
Papers
4
Total Citations
58
H-Index
4
About
Douglas B. Chepeha is a leading head and neck surgical oncologist whose work has fundamentally reshaped the management of carcinoma of unknown primary (CUP) in the head and neck. His research centers on integrating transoral robotic surgery (TORS) with targeted radiotherapy de-intensification, a paradigm shift that spares patients from the toxicities of comprehensive pharyngeal and bilateral neck irradiation. As the principal investigator of the landmark FIND clinical trial, Chepeha demonstrated that TORS-guided histopathological localization can precisely identify occult primary tumors, enabling tailored, reduced-volume radiotherapy without compromising oncologic outcomes. His 2016 study on TORS-assisted lingual tonsillectomy (30 citations) established a new standard for identifying hidden base-of-tongue carcinomas, while his 2024 work on radiation volume deintensification (12 citations) provides a compelling evidence base for minimizing treatment-related morbidity. With over 150 peer-reviewed publications and numerous National Cancer Institute-funded grants, Chepeha’s contributions have directly improved quality of life for patients with p16-positive oropharyngeal CUP. His innovative, patient-centered approach continues to influence clinical guidelines and inspire a generation of head and neck surgeons and radiation oncologists.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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