Fennetta A. van der Scheer

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Fennetta A. van der Scheer is a head and neck surgical oncologist whose research focuses on improving diagnostic and treatment outcomes for patients with head and neck cancer, particularly those with carcinoma of unknown primary (CUP). Her major contributions center on the use of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) as both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool, demonstrating how robotic mucosectomy of the base of tongue can significantly increase primary tumor identification rates in CUP patients. This work directly addresses a critical clinical challenge, as identifying the occult primary tumor is essential for guiding targeted, less morbid treatment. Her most cited paper, "Swallowing outcomes after transoral robotic surgery and adjuvant treatment in unknown primary" (2024), with 3 citations, provides valuable data on functional outcomes, showing that while TORS-based diagnosis and treatment can preserve swallowing function, adjuvant therapies may still impact recovery. Though early in her career, van der Scheer’s research is already shaping clinical protocols for CUP management, offering a pathway to more precise, function-sparing care. Her work underscores the promise of minimally invasive robotic techniques in head and neck oncology, making her a rising voice in the field.